NeuroSense featuring the VP CMC

“If you are not moving forward, you are moving backwards. Standing still means you are moving backwards” – Sharon Cohen-Vered, VP CMC

I have been working in the pharmaceutical industry for over 25 years now. I started working at NeuroSense about four years ago, first as a CMC (chemistry, manufacturing, and controls) consultant, and then as an employee. While my day-to-day responsibilities haven’t changed much, my connection to my work has deepened significantly. This isn’t just another company I’m advising—it’s my company, and its mission is now my personal mission. I’m not just offering my best advice; I’m fully committed to driving that advice forward and ensuring it’s implemented. The stakes are higher, and the passion I bring to the table is stronger because the success of this mission is deeply personal to me.

Additionally, I enjoy being a part of a small company, as I can be a lot more involved. I work with everyone on our goals collectively, rather than just being reached out to with CMC questions. Working as a team with everyone rather than alone enables a greater chance of making a difference.

As VP of CMC, I am responsible for developing and overseeing the process behind the raw materials, drug manufacturing, dosage form, administration methods, etc. During my past experience in bigger pharmaceutical companies, I was often approached with specific requests for my approval, but at a smaller company like NeuroSense, I am actually involved in the brainstorming process.

For the development of PrimeC, we worked on coordinating the release of the medicine in the body to create an extended-release tablet. For example, I would provide input on drug administration routes while taking into account the limitations of our patients, including swallowing, and different aspects of treatment burden. The steps of PrimeC’s development included formulation development, the creation of small-scale batches, which are used for Phase 1 and 2, and finally there is an ongoing scale-up in batch size for NeuroSense’s pivotal Phase 3 study.

Ultimately, I chose to join NeuroSense because it aligns with my values—it’s good for the soul. Joining a biotech startup is undoubtedly a risk, but it’s a risk worth taking because the work is deeply fulfilling and has a meaningful impact on people’s lives. The challenges we face are significant, but so are the rewards. For me, it’s about more than just a career; it’s a commitment to making a difference in a field that truly matters.

My advice to anyone considering a similar path is simple: if you’re not moving forward, you’re moving backwards. Progress is essential, especially in an industry as dynamic as biotech. Standing still is not an option. You have to be willing to push boundaries, take risks, and embrace the journey with a sense of purpose. In the end, it’s the passion for the mission and the drive to keep moving forward that make the challenges worthwhile.