Dure Butt (she/her)

About me

I was born/grew up in: Mississauga, Ontario.

I now live in: Pickering, Ontario.

I completed my training/education at: I have a Bachelor of Science from the University of Waterloo, and a Master of Medical Biotechnology from the University of Windsor.

What I do at work

I am an Operations Associate at Roche Canada. The Operations Associates are the connections between multiple stakeholders and teams. We work with internal stakeholders. This includes the Contracting teams, as well as Medical and Marketing teams. We also work with different agencies externally. Everything we do is aimed at bringing projects to life. We help with the development of support materials for Healthcare Professionals and patients.  We are the process experts! We help improve processes to make them more streamlined and efficient. We are the glue that holds the teams together! We work together as a team. Our goal is to find way to improve processes in order to streamline them for our teams. My background in STEM gives me the skills to critically analyze problems. It also helps me understand product information at a foundational level

My career path is

When I was in high school, I wanted to be a pharmacist. I knew I loved chemistry! I wanted to pursue a career where I would be using this science. However, when I participated in the co-op program at Waterloo and had my first co-op job, I realized it wasn’t for me. I then went on to explore different areas of healthcare and pharmaceuticals. I wanted to find a better role for me. Waterloo’s co-op program really helped me understand my skillset. I highly recommend taking internships and co-op programs while you are in university. These programs give you the opportunity to explore your passions.

I am motivated by

I am highly motivated in my role at Roche. Our focus is on delivering medications for rare diseases. This sets us apart from other teams. This field has many unique challenges. Many of our patients have few treatment options. As a result, our field has a large impact on the lives of these patients. Being part of a company that highlights this underserved area of healthcare is professionally fulfilling. At the same time it is also personally rewarding. It's a reminder every day that our work makes a huge difference in the lives of those who need it most.

How I affect peoples’ lives

Sometimes the role that I work in feels so far removed from the impact that we are making. However, we are the closest to seeing the impact of the medications that we deliver to patients. One of the things that I do in my role is support the development and access of patient materials. These materials help patients gain a better understanding of the products they are using or taking. This helps improve the safety of these products when in use. It also helps improve patient outcomes. These materials can also empower patients to take control of their treatment. This can give them the confidence to manage their own care.

Outside of work I

I love hanging out with my friends and discovering new cafes!! I also have my own small business (qismatstudio.com). I started this business because of my love for graphic design and artwork! I love exploring new skills. I’m currently dabbling in photography 😊 I also LOVEEEE traveling and have a couple fun destinations on my bucket list for 2024!

My advice to others

Explore many avenues! You never know where you'll end up through the connections you make along the way and the experiences you gain. It's very important to keep an open mind to allow for your growth.