Katarína Pšenáková












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            Katarína Pšenáková, Ph.D.

            Head of Biology at IOCB Tech s.r.o. - PharmTheon


            Expertise and focus:                   I am a scientist and translational research leader
                                                   with a PhD in Chemistry who intentionally pivoted

                                                   into Genetics during a postdoctoral stay at Harvard
                                                   University. Over six years at Harvard, I built
                                                   expertise in science as well as in entrepreneurship

                                                   After returning to Prague, I helped establish
                                                   PharmTheon, a drug development translational
                                                   research center focused on transforming breakthroug

                                                   basic research into clinically relevant therapies.
                                                   My work combines scientific leadership, strategic
                                                   business development, and operational management. I

                                                   currently lead the biology lab, drive translational
                                                   programs, and negotiate partnering and licensing
                                                   opportunities with major pharmaceutical companies

                                                   around the world.
            Form of mentoring meetings:            Either way, online or offline

            Has an experience in:                  Academic career
                                                   Career in the private sector

                                                   Link to CV [ URL "https://www.linkedin.com/in/
                                                   katarina-psenakova/"]



            Previous mentoring experience: 

            Motivation:                            I am a passionate advocate for women in science and
                                                   for translational research. I believe mentorship ca

                                                   make a real difference in helping young scientists
                                                   recognize the broad range of career opportunities.
                                                   Having built my own career across disciplines

                                                   and countries, I hope to inspire others to pursue
                                                   ambitious paths and to see the potential of working
                                                   at the best research institutions in the world

                                                   while translating scientific discoveries into real
                                                   clinical impact.

            Career guidance topics you can discuss •iCareer change, change of field
            mentor:                                • Asking essential life questions

                                                   • Differences between academic and non-academic
                                                     careers


            Research related experience the mentor •sPath to an academic position abroad
            share with the mentee:                 • Transition from academia to the private sector

                                                   • Project management
                                                   • Navigating the job market in the sector I operate
                                                     in

                                                   • Validating a business idea
                                                   • Starting a company
                                                   • Utilizing the potential of international

                                                     internships, conferences, etc.


            Open to discuss topics related to familYesnd work–
            life balance:

            Language:                              English