Marla Quintana is currently a Post-Doctoral Fellow in Regulatory Sciences Advertising and Promotion at Biogen. Prior to becoming a fellow, she was a PharmD student at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS University) – Boston and a leader for multiple student organizations. While at MCPHS, she discovered an interest in pursuing a career in the biopharmaceutical field which steered her into the fellowship programs offered at Biogen. In the last year, she has developed a solid understanding of FDA regulations and has collaborated with cross functional teams to provide compliant promotional materials. Now, as a Co-Chief Fellow for the Biogen fellowship cohort, and regulatory reviewer for a Biogen brand, she is looking forward to her development and growth in the industry.
What is an Industry Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) Fellowship and what are the opportunities offered at Biogen?
A fellowship is a 1–2-year post-graduate program focused on industry-based training to further the experience and skills of PharmD graduates. Biogen, in partnership with MCPHS, currently offers 7 programs in distinct functional areas including medical affairs, regulatory affairs, clinical development and marketing. The programs aim to develop strong leaders through hands on experiences and prepare them for success in their future careers within the biopharmaceutical industry.
How did you select the fellowship you wanted to pursue?
After researching various functional areas and speaking to multiple professionals in the industry, I was able to narrow down my programs of interest. Listening to past fellows' experiences provided me with a better understanding of what their role entailed. It also provided me with perspective as to how I would fit in that team and if I saw myself achieving the goals I had set for myself. Once I reflected on those factors for each program, I was able to decide which ones to apply to.
What does a fellowship in Regulatory Affairs Advertising and Promotion at Biogen entail?
This fellowship provides advanced, hands-on experience to support Biogen’s development and commercial campaigns. The program offers opportunities to experience and learn how to apply FDA regulations on promotional materials developed through the commercial organization. It allows the fellow to collaborate with a cross-functional review team to provide promotional regulatory guidance on the development of commercial materials and ensure it meets the regulatory requirements. The program's overall goal is to prepare each fellow to be a successful professional in the regulatory advertising and promotion space.
How has your fellowship best equipped you to transition into the industry?
I believe the fellowship has provided me with the knowledge to understand advertising and promotion regulations in conjunction with the skills necessary to succeed in this functional area. Throughout my development in the program, I have supported the commercial team in the development of promotional materials and collaborated with cross-functional members to ensure the materials comply with the regulations. Looking back on my experiences, I am confident that upon completion of the fellowship, I will be well-prepared to enter an advanced career in this area.
Could you share a memorable experience from your fellowship?
One of my most memorable experiences in the fellowship was while attending the 2023 American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Midyear Clinical Meeting. The ASHP is a professional organization that represents pharmacists who serve as patient care providers in hospitals and other areas. While at the meeting, I had the opportunity to spend time with my co-fellows and bond over our shared experiences at various events. We also had the opportunity to explore California together during some of our free time.
How do you spend your time outside of your fellowship?
Outside of the fellowship, I enjoy spending time with friends and family and discovering new restaurants in the Boston area. My favorite is Lolita, located in Fort Point, Boston. One of my favorite cuisines is Mexican fusions and this location has excellent dishes, the restaurant is beautiful, and the atmosphere is fun! The staff is welcoming and overall, it's an amazing spot I highly recommend. In addition, I enjoy attending pilates classes and reading. I’ve recently taken an interest in volunteering at community centers near me and in the future, I hope to help organize fundraising events.
What advice would you give candidates interested in applying for the Biogen PharmD Fellowship Programs?
There are three main tips I would like to share with prospective candidates. One is to stay organized throughout the application process. Have a spreadsheet with detailed information of your top programs and create a checklist to keep track of tasks to complete. Second is to network with current fellows and professionals in your area of interest. Reach out through the appropriate channels and ask questions regarding the role’s day to day, responsibilities and opportunities for growth. Third is to leverage your past experiences on interviews. Explain to your interviewers why you are a great fit for the role and what experiences you have that provided you with the tools and skills needed to succeed in the role.