Interview with Parbani
13th July 2023
Can you tell us a little about your career before joining NIBRT?
I have successfully obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Plant Science and subsequently completed my Master of Science degree in Biological Sciences with the distinguished honor of summa cum laude, both from Presidency University in India. Additionally, I hold a Bachelor's degree in Education, specializing in professional training. During a fruitful three-year period, I served as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) at a prominent educational institution in Kolkata, India, where I honed my expertise and contributed to the development of aspiring learners. Later, I embraced an exciting opportunity in Dublin, joining Talam Biotech—a leading startup dedicated to revolutionizing agriculture. Following my role there, I assumed the position of a project manager at Trinity College Dublin, where I successfully managed two Horizon 2020 projects. Specifically, I oversaw ITN HELICAL and ITN PROTECT—both Innovative Training Network projects. These initiatives involved coordinating multiple stakeholders, including early-stage researchers, consortium members, and partner organizations, contributing to ground-breaking research and fostering collaboration.
What interested you about the Training role with NIBRT?
Since the beginning of my career, I have always been drawn to roles in the training domain. The captivating field of biopharmaceuticals, in particular, has held a special place in my heart due to its profound impact on our daily lives. The opportunity to contribute to the well-being of individuals through training personnel involved in biopharmaceutical manufacturing has been both compelling and fulfilling for me. With a wealth of experience in training within the realm of biological sciences, my current role at NIBRT is a natural fit for my aptitude as an educator. I have honed my skills in delivering effective training programs in this specialized area, enabling individuals to acquire the knowledge and expertise necessary to excel in biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
Beyond the intrinsic alignment between my teaching aptitude and the training focus at NIBRT, I am immensely proud to be associated with the NIBRT team. The organization fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace environment, valuing the contributions and perspectives of individuals from all parts of the globe. This commitment to inclusivity resonates deeply with me and further enhances my sense of pride in being part of the NIBRT community.
What has your first six months with NIBRT been like?
During the initial six-month period at NIBRT, I found myself fully immersed in an intellectually stimulating environment. The invaluable experiences I gained during this time allowed me to enhance my skills across diverse areas related to biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Moreover, I was fortunate to have the support of an excellent team and mentors at NIBRT, who played a pivotal role in my growth and development. One of the most fulfilling aspects of my journey at NIBRT has been the opportunity to share my biopharmaceutical knowledge and expertise with trainees from various organisations. Being able to contribute to their learning and witness their progress has been truly rewarding.
What skills have you developed since taking up the Training position?
The immersive environment at NIBRT has not only allowed me to acquire a broad range of technical skills but has also honed my expertise in the dynamic field of biologics manufacturing. Additionally, I have gained valuable proficiency in QC Analytics and, notably, achieved expertise in QC Microbiology. This transformative environment has played a pivotal role in developing essential professional competencies, ensuring that I possess confident presentation skills to effectively convey complex concepts. Seamless coordination, efficient time management, and collaborative teamwork have become second nature to me, empowering me to thrive in demanding work settings. I am confident in my ability to deliver impactful presentations, coordinate seamlessly, manage time effectively, and work collaboratively. NIBRT's immersive environment has truly shaped me into a well-rounded professional, prepared to excel in challenging and dynamic industry landscapes.
What is your favourite aspect of the role?
One of the most captivating and fulfilling aspects of this role is the opportunity to regularly engage with diverse groups of individuals. Interacting with people from various backgrounds allows me to broaden my perspective and deepen my understanding of the industry. The inherent opportunity to continuously expand my knowledge base further amplifies the excitement and fulfilment associated with this position. Training, in particular, resonates deeply with me as it provides a sense of purpose and satisfaction. Being able to impart knowledge, inspire others, and witness their growth and development is truly rewarding. Each day brings new challenges and learning opportunities, enabling me to constantly evolve and refine my skills as a trainer.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about a career in Training?
If you are contemplating a career in training, my advice would be to pursue your passion wholeheartedly. Training is a rewarding and fulfilling path that allows you to impart knowledge, inspire others, and make a positive impact on their lives. Embrace every opportunity to enhance your expertise, seek mentorship from experienced professionals, and continually strive for self-improvement. Dedicate yourself to understanding the intricacies of your field, stay up-to-date with the latest advancements, and be open to learning from both successes and challenges. NIBRT offers an exceptional working environment for training that upholds a strong set of principles governing the conduct of its staff. Having experienced the enriching environment first-hand, I wholeheartedly recommend joining the NIBRT team to anyone seeking to make a meaningful impact in the bio-pharmaceutical field in Ireland. NIBRT's commitment to excellence and its dedication to advancing the industry make it an ideal place to thrive and contribute to the dynamic landscape of bio-pharmaceuticals.