Mastering the Art of Collaboration: Principal Investigator and Biotech Dynamics

In episode 5, host Sabine Hutchison, Seuss+ CEO and Co-Founder, takes the stage with the incredible Viviënne van de Walle, a highly respected principal investigator, as she brings her wealth of experience to the table, blending clinical research with patient care. Together they explore the critical role of communication in successful collaborations. Get ready to pick Viviënne’s brain as they tackle the challenges, triumphs, and patient-centric innovations in the dynamic world of biotech and clinical research.

The episode highlights that successful collaboration goes beyond the mere exchange of information; it involves a profound understanding of each other’s perspectives, clear communication, and a steadfast commitment to a patient-centric approach. Through engaging anecdotes and insights, van de Walle underscores the significance of cutting through the noise to establish a harmonious synergy between scientific innovation and business acumen.

The biggest takeaway? In the fast-paced realm of biotech and clinical research, the ability to not only cut the chat but to forge meaningful connections and collaborations is the key to navigating challenges and capitalizing on the boundless opportunities that lie ahead. The episode serves as a valuable guide, emphasizing that the future of life sciences is not just about scientific breakthroughs but about the art of collaborative progress.

Vivienne van de Walle  Bio

Viviënne van de Walle studied medicine both at the University of Maastricht and at the University of Oxford. In addition to her MD degree she holds a medical research degree in Genetics, Pediatrics and Genetics. In 2004 she successfully defended her thesis for her PhD in Auxology and in 2011 she passed the CPI exam. She has always combined clinical research with patient care and has been a full time principal investigator at independent clinical research sites. She founded and owns the independent research site PT&R (www.ptr.nu) since 2006. Her entrepreneurship is reflected by her skills as thought leader and in consulting, educating and managing at CROs, pharma, nutritional companies and in executive and advisory board functions at eCOA vendors and trade organizations i.e. ACRP, SCRS, TransCelerate, CISCRP and the NVFG. With her PT&R-team she was also the proud winner of the inaugural SPRIA EU award of the SCRS in 2018 . In 2019 she was nominated for the Clinical Trial Europe – Christine Pierre Life Time Achievement Award and in 2020 she was nominated at the 5th World Congress on Advanced Clinical Trials and Clinical Research for Women in Science Awards / Women Scientist. And in 2022 she received the Christine K. Pierre Site Impact Award by the SCRS. She started her research career as a participant in a clinical trial and during the COVID19 pandemic has participated in a vaccine trial for HCP and a virtual predictive COVID infection trial. As a result, Viviënne has a unique perspective of the various sides of the table in clinical research and is eager to share her many years of experience. As she states: “I love it when you pick my brain”.

Join the discussion and listen to the full episode here.