Ventsislav Dobrev: "The MAS ETH diCR fundamentally changed the way I approach my work."
The MAS ETH in digital Clinical Research (MAS ETH diCR) was launched in 2022. One of the first participants was Ventsislav Dobrev. He is about to complete his last module by the end of June before he continues with his Master’s Thesis. When he started in the MAS programme, he was working for Novartis and as a digital health entrepreneur. Now, his new role is the Global Lead Digital Health at Ypsomed. Find out from the pioneer how the MAS programme has influenced his career.
Interview Ventsislav Dobrev
Sabine Goldhahn (Programme Manager MAS ETH diCR): Ventsislav, can you tell us about your background and what initially drew you to the MAS ETH digital Clinical Research programme?
I have a life sciences background with over 20 years of experience in pharma and clinical research. The trigger for me was the opportunity to learn more about digital health and digital clinical research, as this was a clear direction where the life sciences industry was heading.
What motivated you to choose the continuing education at ETH?
I knew people from ETH, and the institution has a very good reputation worldwide. Additionally, I was acting as an entrepreneur at the time I applied to ETH, and I was impressed by the great support the institution provides to start-up founders. The spin-off rate at ETH is quite high.
Which aspects of the MAS diCR at ETH did you particularly enjoy?
Looking back at my career and learning journey, one of my key drivers and motivators was to expand my knowledge and experience in diverse areas. I clearly identified areas in the curriculum of MAS ETH diCR where I could learn more and develop further in my professional journey.
How has the MAS diCR at ETH influenced your professional development?
The programme had a huge impact on my professional development in several aspects. It helped me establish myself with confidence in the area of digital health and supported me while I was running my own venture. Moreover, it played a key role in my career journey at Ypsomed.
What specific skills or knowledge acquired at ETH have helped you in your career?
There is a lot; I cannot list it all. I gained systematic knowledge in many areas, which helped me approach tasks and products in the right way. Digital health is a relatively new area, but whenever I encounter a problem to solve, I know what and where to look for.
“I transferred most, if not all, of the things I learned.”Ventsislav Dobrev, participant of the MAS ETH diCR
Can you provide examples of how you have applied what you learned from the MAS diCR at ETH in your professional practice?
I can mention a few examples, but there are more. At my company, Ypsomed, my role is to develop software as a medical device products to support patients in self-care management. The knowledge and experience I gained in areas such as "Assessing and Designing Digital Health Interventions", "Regulatory Thinking", and "Modern Concepts of Clinical Research" fundamentally changed the way I approach my work. I transferred most, if not all, of the things I learned.
Another example that had a great impact on me was the topic around digital biomarkers. This is an area of huge potential and impact right now and in the future, as it allows us to measure in an objective and remote way how our body functions and how diseases evolve. I use this knowledge in my current role at Ypsomed, trying to understand how digital biomarkers can further enhance our efforts to support patients in performing self-care at home. Additionally, I actively engage with start-ups in that area.
What advice would you give to individuals considering enrolling in the MAS ETH diCR programme?
It is very simple. If you like the curriculum, do not hesitate; you will not regret it.
Have you made new contacts through the continuing education programme that have proven beneficial for your career?
Most of the new contacts I made have played a certain role in my career, either through the exchanges we have or by introducing me to other people from their own network. Of course, the curriculum and knowledge we receive in the programme are essential, but I would not underestimate the opportunities to build a solid network as part of the programme.
Lastly, how do you see the field of digital clinical research evolving in the future, and what role do you envision yourself playing in it?
Digital Health and Digital Research and Development have their ups and downs, but it is clear to everyone that they are here to stay. Areas such as digital biomarkers, digital twins, synthetic arms and in silico trials, digital companions, and therapeutics will continue to play essential roles in providing treatments to patients faster, cheaper, and in a more convenient way. I would love to play an active role as it is so exciting. Programmes such as MAS ETH diCR play an essential role in educating new talent and inspiring them to join that journey.
Thank you for sharing your experiences and insights. We wish you continued success in your exciting journey in digital clinical research.
“Of course, the curriculum and knowledge we receive in the programme are essential, but I would not underestimate the opportunities to build a solid network as part of the programme.”Ventsislav Dobrev, participant of the MAS ETH diCR
Find more information about the MAS ETH in digital Clinical Research on the detailed view of the programme.
Those interested in starting the MAS programme in the autumn semester of 2024 must apply by 7 July 2024.