At ttopstart we work in an international team of creative innovators. In our series ‘Meet the ttopstart team’ we introduce you to our colleagues. We interviewed Flora about her passion for science, love for her job and how she personally relates to the ttopstart values.
Flora is a consultant part of the Business Leadership team. Her experience in business development and commercial strategies allows her to bridge the gap between ttopstarts internal capabilities and client requirements; develop ttopstarts expertise into new services ensuring that we are offering the most relevant and impactful support to our clients.
When did your love for science and innovation start?
‘Growing up I had been fortunate enough to be exposed to the latest technologies. This has sparked my curiosity for the future and its innovations along with my innate excitement for the unknown. I often find myself drawn to individuals, colleagues, clients who push boundaries and embrace challenges. Their willingness to take risks resonates with my own personality. At ttopstart we; along with our clients, share a core belief: we dare to challenge the status quo and bring novel solutions to market.’
What are the main challenges for researchers and innovators in life sciences and health, and how would you like to empower them??
‘Scientists face a multitude of challenges in translating brilliant ideas into real-world solutions. Securing funding, crafting effective strategies, managing large research consortia and their projects, and ensuring project sustainability beyond funding cycles: these tasks can be daunting while also maintaining research excellence.
We help scientists navigate these complexities, ensuring the highest quality output. This allows them to focus on what they do best – groundbreaking scientific research.’
What are your credentials/past experience, for working in your position?
‘My experience comes from a slightly different perspective. I completed a joint research and business focused Biomedical Sciences MSc degree from the Leiden University Medical Center where next to exploring novel organ-on-a-chip technologies I mostly focused on biomedical innovations and entrepreneurship. Combined with this strong biomedical background focusing on commercializing new technologies, I have been previously working in the biotech industry specialized in the organ-on-a-chip space. Witnessing the power of high-throughput in vitro technologies, I quickly recognized the transformation that they could bring to drug development. After this, my mission became very clear. ‘
What do you like most about working at ttopstart?
‘The focused energy of a beehive resonates with my experience at ttopstart. We function as a cohesive unit, leveraging individual strengths within a structured system. This collaborative approach ensures we consistently deliver the highest quality output while our clients can focus on what they do best: the science.’
The ttopstart values are Teamwork, Taking Ownership and Passion, how do you personally relate to these values?
‘I have always excelled in environments that fostered teamwork and celebrated shared successes. I’m a firm believer in cappuccino-fueled brainstorming sessions, where ideas can bounce around and propel the team forward. At ttopstart, what truly fascinates me is the commitment to inclusivity. Everyone contributes their unique expertise, personality, and background. But most importantly, everyone shares a passion for not only the work we do together, but also for how we do it.
The future of science and its potential for innovation have always inspired me. My specific interest lies in the life sciences and health sectors towards the future of health. Being able to support new ideas that propel this field forward is highly rewarding. I believe aligning my career with my core passion is essential for leading an authentic and fulfilling life.
Taking ownership: By understanding my core strengths and weaknesses, I am actively seeking opportunities to learn and develop. This approach empowers me to lead with confidence and make sound decisions be it with clients or internal projects.’
Your motto:
‘Perseverance is key and it pays off’
Thanks, Flora!
Do you want to become a ttopstarter as well?
Are you interested in joining our team? Check out our career page! We are always looking for talented and motivated people.
“At ttopstart, driven by an entrepreneurial mindset, I am keen on supporting innovators to revolutionize the sector and the life of patients through a constructive collaboration between business partners and academia, with the right strategies in mind.”
– FLORA KOVACS, MSC – CONSULTANT AT TTOPSTART