Elena Rivkin

About me

I was born/grew up in: Russia

I now live in: Toronto, Ontario

I completed my training/education at: I have a Bachelor degree in Biology from York University and a PhD in Molecular Genetics and Neuroscience from University of Toronto.

What I do at work

I am a Business Analyst with responsibilities for Team Manager. I lead a team of business analysis and usability experts who work in manufacturing at Roche.     I help teams improve their work. I do this through the use of technology. I work with them to identify challenges or gaps in the work they do. Then I try to find ways to improve them. I understand how to translate what is needed into information technology solutions.

My science background helps me to learn new information and manage data. It also allows me to troubleshoot and focus on invention and improvement. My knowledge of life sciences and computer science helps me connect these two areas. This is a very important part of my work in Business Analysis.

My career path is

I always liked science and biology in particular. After I completed my Bachelor degree I went on to do a PhD at the University of Toronto. While there I worked  on a novel gene in embryonic development.

After graduation, I started a job where I could combine my expertise in genetics with data analysis and bioinformatics. That job introduced me to the world of information technology, which I really enjoyed.  Over the next few years, I focused on getting a broad range of technical expertise. I worked in industries including healthcare and retail. I always wanted to combine my interest in information technology with life sciences. I’m able to do this in my work at Roche. See my LinkedIn profile for more information.

I am motivated by

Ultimately, I am driven by the desire to help improve the lives and health of people. Working in pharmaceuticals offers a great opportunity to make a difference.  I enjoy knowing that I contribute to the development and use of new technology designed to improve the development, manufacturing and distribution of products.

How I affect peoples’ lives

In my career, I have been involved in many different fields. These include artificial intelligence in medicine, retail and pharmaceuticals. It gives me great satisfaction to deliver solutions to specific problems, and to measure the impact of my work on end users.

Outside of work I

I like to stay active and I have a curious mind. I like to read and watch documentaries. I enjoy various outdoor activities and spending time with friends.

My advice to others

Keep learning and experimenting. Don't worry if you end up somewhere unexpected. ☺