Moderna Foundation Supports ISPE Foundation Professional Development Grants Program

At the 2024 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo, 23 students and recent graduates received the ISPE Foundation Professional Development Grant thanks in part to a generous donation from the Moderna Foundation. The grant program awards recipients conference attendance and a 2-year ISPE membership, as well as assists with associated travel expenses. For early career professionals, access to funds for professional development is often limited. The ISPE Foundation seeks to bridge this gap as it is crucial for their personal growth and the industry’s growth that up-and-coming talent be amid the knowledge exchange and networking provided during ISPE conferences.

The Moderna Foundations support of the program directly aligns with our shared goals to promote global health and support those from underserved communities. The contribution given by the Moderna Foundation made a huge difference in the career trajectory of this year’s grant recipients, including Vincent Nguyen, a Biomedical Engineering student at the University of Texas San Antonio. As Vincent reflected on the event, he stated, “At the heart of my experience at the ISPE conference was a profound realization about the indispensable power of collaboration in the biotech and pharmaceutical sectors. Throughout the event, it became increasingly clear that the success of modern projects is deeply rooted in effective cross-disciplinary teamwork. Engaging in spirited roundtable discussions and collaborative panels allowed me to witness firsthand how diverse teams, each bringing their unique expertise and perspectives, can tackle complex challenges more efficiently. This dynamic interaction underscored a vital point: integrating various methodologies is no longer merely an advantage; it has become essential for driving groundbreaking innovations that can revolutionize the industry.”

Vincent went on to share, “I emerged from the conference with a renewed appreciation for the ISPE Foundation’s unwavering commitment to cultivating the next generation of leaders in our field. Engaging with fellow grantees illuminated the organization’s pivotal role in nurturing future innovators. The discussions highlighted both the ISPE Foundation and ISPE’s extensive focus on professional development through a variety of programs and robust mentorship opportunities. This investment in individual growth is not just beneficial; it is crucial, as it directly correlates to the overall success and sustainability of our industry.”

When emerging talent enters a conference like the 2024 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo, filled with professionals involved in the various facets of the pharmaceutical industry, they are able to see how collaboration deeply shapes innovation. It is crucial for students and recent graduates to witness and contribute to this innovation that profoundly benefits the many patients who are depending on the creation of new medicines. Without Moderna Foundation’s donation, the ISPE Foundation Professional Development Grants program would not have been able to support students and recent graduates, like Vincent. The ISPE Foundation depends on industry leading companies and individuals who recognize the need to support the workforce of the future. The next generation of talent is here, waiting for the door of opportunity to be opened. If you would like to learn more about how your company can join in on the ISPE Foundation’s mission, please reach out to foundation@ispe.org or visit ispefoundation.org/donate today.