S3 E12 , Barbara Commisso, Business Development Manager at Evidenze

In this episode of She Leads Biotech, host Sharron Cox, CEO of CNA International USA, speaks with Barbara Commisso, Business Development Manager at Evidenze, about building a biotech career from the ground up and why non-linear paths often lead to the most rewarding roles.Barbara’s journey began with academic research in Germany and evolved through unexpected pivots, including a role as a study coordinator in a psychiatric unit in Italy, before she found her niche in clinical trials and business development. Today, she works remotely across global markets, helping to connect science, operations, and strategy in the evolving world of clinical research.Topics include:🔹 How she transitioned from academic neuroscience into clinical operations🔹 The role of courage, self-belief, and mentorship in early-career pivots🔹 Navigating remote work and the European biotech landscape🔹 The rise of AI in clinical trials and how it’s shaping future roles🔹 Why she now mentors PhDs and postdocs navigating the same uncertainty she once faced📌 Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Meet Barbara and her early research career in Germany03:00 – Returning to Italy and starting from scratch in clinical trials06:00 – Moving into business development and working remotely08:30 – Cultural contrasts in biotech across Europe11:00 – How AI is reshaping clinical operations and trial design14:00 – Funding, hiring, and market trends in life sciences17:30 – The importance of mentorship and sharing your journey20:00 – Advice to scientists looking to pivot into biotech22:00 – What’s next for Barbara and the future of clinical researchA relatable and honest conversation about starting over, staying curious, and finding your place in biotech, even when the path isn’t linear.#SheLeadsBiotech #CNAInternationalUSA #BarbaraCommisso #ClinicalResearch #CareerTransition #WomenInSTEM #LifeSciences #MentorshipMatters #BiotechLeadership #RemoteWork #AuthenticLeadership