Joseph Ross - Quality Assurance Associate
What do you do?
I am a Quality Assurance Associate at the biotechnology company Moderna Therapeutics. Being on the Quality Assurance (QA) Operations team, my primary focus is supporting the commercial manufacturing teams, reviewing and releasing material as well as many other QA functions that are needed in the labs.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I got into pharma through medical devices; I worked at Web Industries, a medical device company that partnered with Becton, Dickinson and, Company (BD), where in Holliston (MA, USA) we made the first COVID-19 rapid test in the world. Before that, I was in the natural gas industry as a division leader on the industry's quality/safety/ regulatory side. My first role in Pharma was at Moderna after leaving the medical device industry. the need for deep knowledge of the process, product, and your company governing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and other documents. Due to globalization, I need to stay up-to-date on the latest international guidelines from organizations and nationals worldwide. (FDA, Health Canada, MHRA, EMA, TGA, etc.). The second thing I like about this job is the organized process and,methods of the industry. Lastly is the problem solving, the data analysis, improvement activities, working with the QMSs, the research, the science, all of it.
How did you get into Pharma?
I got into pharma through medical devices; I worked at Web Industries, a medical device company that partnered with Becton, Dickinson and, Company (BD) where in Holliston (MA, USA) we made the first COVID-19 rapid test in the world. Before that, I was in the natural gas industry as a division leader on the industry's quality/safety/ regulatory side. My first role in Pharma was at Moderna after leaving the medical device industry.
Why Pharma?
I always wanted to help people, and I love science. What really drove me into the pharma industry is the opportunity to make a difference, to help those who need help. “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests but also for the interests of others”-Philippians 2:4. In my attempt to help people, I have shared some of what I have learned in my book, “Art of Revolution-Creating Leaders Not Followers” available on Amazon.
What has your experience been being #BlackInPharma?
In most cases, I always find myself welcomed in the room, and very rarely have I thought about my race in the workplace. I have been blessed to work for, and with, those who care about the character, work ethic, and abilities you bring to the table and not a race. I have been afforded great opportunities for advancement, learning, and recognition throughout my career.
Top tips to getting into your role / Pharma?
Outside of hard work I would say creatively find solutions and rise to the occasion. There are going to be hundreds, if not thousands, of people who are on the same path, and who have the same goals. Find a way to keep learning, growing and ask the difficult questions.
Fun fact
I have a wonderful wife and son, with a daughter on the way (Sept. 2022) who have supported me in becoming an author of Art Of Revolution with a second book coming out this autumn.
When I was 15, I took part in a transcendental cycling trip across the USA (close to 3800 miles/ 6,115 kilometers).
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