When did you first discover you had a passion for science?
I developed a real interest in chemistry in high school when we started to learn the “whys” that explain various physical phenomena. I was initially pre-med, but decided to follow my passion and majored in Chemistry. I went on to get my Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Columbia University.
What do you do at Pfizer?
I’m a lab head in the Experimental Design Medicinal Chemistry Group in Groton, CT where my lab is focusing on innovative strategies to solve medicinal chemistry design challenges across a wide range of programs.
What is the most enjoyable part of your job?
I love the puzzle of medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical research. I think that designing a drug that makes it to market is the hardest thing one could ever do. So trying to solve even one small piece of that multi-dimensional, multi-variable puzzle is incredibly exciting.
What do you like most about being a Think Science Now (TSN) Member?
I love that TSN helps to break down the wall and show the public what really goes on inside an organization like Pfizer. Having come from Wyeth, I had a number of misconceptions about what working at Pfizer would be like. But I have been thrilled to find that the level of scientific rigor here is exceptional. Pfizer not only cares about getting medicines to patients to fill unmet medical needs, they put the research and resources in place to accomplish it.
What is one thing your colleagues would be surprised to know about you?
I’d only been dating my now wife for one month when she asked me take a swing dancing class with her at the 92nd Street Y in New York. I thought I would hate it, but she created a monster – and we went on to perform together in swing dancing groups throughout Manhattan.
Do you remember a science experiment you did in school?
In my Advanced Chemistry class in high school we made Benzocaine (which is related to Lidocaine, the dental anesthetic). This would never happen today, but our teachers actually let us try the topical solution we made on our gums. Thinking back, it was so dangerous but it is one science experiment I’ll never forget.
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