Nusheen Ditta

About me

I was born/grew up in: I was born in London, UK and grew up there too.

I now live in: Greater Toronto Area, Ontario

I completed my training/education at: I completed my BSc in Biochemistry, and MSc in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from the University of London, UK.

What I do at work

As a senior data manager at Roche, I am responsible for a number of things. These include management of projects, stakeholders, and vendors. I am also involved in a variety of activities related to the development of new drugs. I make sure that we collect the right data, at the right time in order to make decisions. I work as part of a team of people who are all experts in areas related to data collections, analysis, use and storage. 

I use my science background to help me understand the scientific development of different pharmaceutical drugs in cancer research and treatment. STEM helps me to break down a problem and analyze the possible solutions to come up with the best resolution. I am a team player and work in an environment where collaboration is very important

My career path is

I have always wanted to work in a science related field. At first I did research in a laboratory environment. I worked in Government, hospital and private research facilities for five years. After a while, I realized that I wanted to change direction.

I did not know what Clinical Data Management was when I applied for my first position but I was curious to learn more. I stumbled into this area of work by chance and have remained in this field for the past 17 years. The field has evolved so much that I feel as if I am doing a new job every few years. I have the passion and drive to learn more and more, as we discover new information about different diseases. This is really an exciting area in which to work.

I am motivated by

I like the technical and scientific aspects of my work. I enjoy the fact that every day brings different activities. I also like the fact that as technology advances the way I work changes. I am constantly learning and evolving in my role. I enjoy project management that makes an impact on bringing a new drug to market.

How I affect peoples’ lives

I find my career to be fulfilling because I am working on the next generation of cancer medicines that are personalised to individual patients. I enjoy being at the forefront of drug development and cutting edge science. When I work on a successful drug, and it is available for the patients, I see the impact it has on their life and health. It is very rewarding to help others live a life where their disease no longer controls them.

Outside of work I

I am artistic; art is my hobby and I enjoy painting, mosaic work and knitting. I find this helps me to use the other side of my brain and nurtures my creativity. I do volunteer for an organization as well. I go to the gym regularly to keep healthy and I play basketball.

My advice to others

Please consider that there are so many new fields opening up as we become more technically advanced. Explore your options by speaking to people who are in your field of interest. Try to volunteer and do CO-OPs to expose yourself to careers that you may find interesting. Ask your family, friends and school to help you connect with these individuals. Read newspapers and online articles to gain knowledge of current affairs.