We met with Pierre, Study & Research Director in Pharmaco-Imaging department
Can you briefly describe your professional background and the reasons that led you to pursue a career in science/health?[Pierre A.] My curiosity about how things and the world function naturally led me to pursue a chemistry education. After obtaining a university diploma in chemistry (DUT), I continued my journey by joining an engineering school. It was during my thesis on cancer imaging (I have a PhD in Chemistry) that I truly began to explore applications related to health, expanding my perspective on the contribution of chemistry to such vital domains. |
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What does your role at Oncodesign Services entail, and what are your daily responsibilities?
[PA] As the Director of Study in the Pharmaco-Imaging department, my main mission is to assist our clients in the development of their products, whether transforming them into medical imaging tools or using them directly for therapeutic purposes. My role covers the entire process, from the design of the radiolabeled product to in vivo distribution studies and the evaluation of therapeutic efficacy.
On a daily basis, I am responsible for coordinating projects and actively participating in the drafting of study plans and the preparation of quotes. Depending on the client’s needs and the questions they seek to answer, study parameters can vary, including the choice of radioisotope and radiolabeling conditions, determination of the administered dose, selection of imaging techniques and time points, or the number of animals cohorts required. My role also involves constant communication with laboratory platforms to manage all logistical and scientific aspects of these projects, as well as adapting projects to the specific regulations for radioactivity and animal use of each country.
Finally, I ensure meticulous validation of the data generated and the report before sending it to the client, thus guaranteeing the quality and compliance of our deliverables. It is an exciting mission that requires a multidisciplinary approach and constant adaptation to the evolving field.
"In science, the right question is not 'why,' but 'why not'."
What role does pharmaco-play in the development of a drug, and why is it essential?
[PA] Pharmaco-Imaging can be an objective in itself, but it is primarily a valuable tool in pharmaceutical development. It provides a non-invasive rapid access to crucial information, allowing for the quick exploration of molecular libraries. The visual data generated by imaging can be particularly appreciated when compiling regulatory dossiers.
Beyond its efficiency in rapidly obtaining information, nuclear imaging plays a major role in reducing the number of animals needed for in vivo studies. By analyzing data generated on the same group of animals, we minimize the impact on animal populations while optimizing the accuracy of our results.
In summary, integrating nuclear imaging into the drug development process not only accelerates the process but also produces reliable data while adhering to higher ethical standards. It is an indispensable tool that contributes to shaping the future of pharmaceutical research.
What are the important qualities for someone in your profession?
[PA] I would say scientific curiosity, stress resistance, and not being afraid to step out of one’s comfort zone. In the field of radiopharmacy, research has greatly accelerated in recent years with the approval of new radiopharmaceutical compounds that are gaining increasing market share, and there is still much to discover!
Why do you think joining Oncodesign Services is a good choice?
[PA] In early 2022, I joined Oncodesign Services for its translational approach and the opportunity to follow the development of a tracer from start to finish, from bench to bedside, as well as for the diversity of projects. Here, we benefit from a holistic vision covering drug discovery and preclinical development, complete immersion in the exciting process that leads from conception to clinical studies.
