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​OCTOBER COMM CONVO: THE BIOPHARMA COMMUNICATIONS EXPERTISE PARADOX

​We as life sciences communicators face a unique challenge: we need broad communications expertise while operating in one of the most specialized industries. Whether you come from journalism, PR agencies, patient advocacy, or regulatory affairs, success requires navigating the tension between being a strategic communications generalist and developing deep scientific knowledge. This creates an ongoing expertise paradox that shapes everything from individual career decisions to team-building strategies and hiring decisions. This month's Comm Convo explores the experiences that matter most, the gaps we're still trying to fill, and how the most successful professionals balance broad skills with specialized knowledge while rapidly upskilling themselves and their teams in an industry that demands both.

​WHY ATTEND

• ​Assess whether being a generalist opens more opportunities or limits access to specialized roles, and how to strategically position yourself for your next step

• ​Pinpoint specific expertise gaps that impact career advancement and learn how successful professionals leverage varied backgrounds as strategic assets

• ​Explore approaches for rapidly upskilling yourself and your team in unfamiliar scientific or business areas

• ​Determine optimal team composition strategies, balancing generalists and specialists, while prioritizing capabilities that drive actual business impact

• ​Challenge common myths about what skills actually drive success in biopharma communications and focus on competencies and experiences that matter most

​MEET OUR SPEAKERS

​Raven Baxter, Ph.D.

​Dr. Raven Baxter is a renowned molecular biologist and leader in science education. Popularly known as Dr. Raven the Science Maven, she is credited with progressing perceptions of science by leveraging creative outlets in music, fashion, and popular culture to translate complex science into engaging narratives. Dr. Baxter aids scientists and scientific organizations in crafting effective and inclusive science communication and brand strategy. As the Executive Director of The Science Haven, she leads powerful initiatives that democratize participation in science.

​As a multi-award winning science educator recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30, Fortune 40 Under 40, and EBONY Power 100, Dr. Raven is celebrated for her innovation, inclusivity, and dedication to science education. Her work continues to inspire a global passion for science, truly embodying her mission to make science an exciting and inclusive discipline for all.

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​Sébastien Desprez

​Sébastien Desprez is VP, Communications at Immunocore, a commercial-stage biotech company, where he leads global external and internal communications, branding, and public affairs. He has held senior roles in agencies, in particular Ketchum, in large Pharma, at ViiV Healthcare and GSK, and in biotech, where he has built and implemented integrated communications strategies and teams connecting science, people, and purpose through strategic storytelling and culture-driven engagement. A fluent French and English speaker, he brings expertise in corporate reputation, leadership engagement, and change management.

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​Jamie L. Weiss, Ph.D.

​Jamie Weiss is Director, Medical Communications and Publications, Scientific Communications, at Alnylam Pharmaceuticals. Prior to joining Alnylam, Jamie was Senior Medical Affairs Consultant Global Publications Lead at Takeda, in Rare Metabolic Disease. Jamie was Senior Director, Scientific Programs at Prilenia, managing scientific/medical affairs, publications, and patient advocacy content. Jamie was previously Director Global Publications at LEO Pharma where she was head of publications and created their publications department/processes. Jamie was Associate Director Publications in Neuroscience at Novartis, and Senior Medical Writer Eye Care Publications at Allergan. She is an invited speaker on publications innovation and serves on ISMPP program committees. She was formerly a professor of biomedical science and principal investigator for 11 years. Jamie has a PhD in Neuroscience (cellular/molecular) and a Bachelor’s in Biological Science (genetics - cellular & molecular biology). She holds certificates in Essential Skills for Medical Writing (AMWA) and Brain-Based Coaching (NeuroLeadership Institute).