Stephen Byard, principal research fellow at Arcinova, a Quotient Sciences company, has joined the board of directors. He brings with him more than 36 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Stephen was delighted to join the board to give back to the industry, explore new opportunities for the North East and share his personal experience with the wider cluster.
Alongside his professional role, Stephen is committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists. He regularly attends schools and colleges, teaching children about the stages of pharmaceutical development and is also involved with mentoring. “Engaging with schools and universities is incredibly rewarding,” he said. “It helps students understand what a career in science can look like, while also supporting the future talent for our sector.”
Stephen has been involved with NEPIC since 2016, having been introduced to the organisation when Arcinova was formed. Reflecting on the value of NEPIC membership, he commented: “It’s the networking and exchange of ideas that stand out. NEPIC brings together businesses across the region and gives the North East a stronger, collective voice.”
He particularly values NEPIC’s role in connecting industry with academia, facilitating collaboration across the North East’s pharmaceutical companies, as well as interfacing with complementary sectors in the region, and supporting initiatives that inspire young people into science and engineering careers.
When asked what it means to be joining the NEPIC board, Stephen described it as a privilege and an opportunity to contribute more actively to the region. “NEPIC is an organisation that represents the North East at a national level. I look forward to working with people from different backgrounds, presenting collaborative opportunities and helping to find solutions together.”
Looking ahead, Stephen hopes to contribute by sharing his pharmaceutical knowledge and experience in business to help promote opportunities in the North East, raising awareness of the region’s strengths, and supporting collaboration with other professional bodies to add value to NEPIC’s goals and initiatives.
The NEPIC team is delighted to welcome Stephen to the Board.
To read more about Stephen and Arcinova: https://www.nepic.co.uk/celebrating-20-years-of-nepic-reflections-with-stephen-byard/