Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 5/1/2024 12:00:00 AM
Dan Li, PhD, Senior Scientist, Merck & Co, Inc. Harleysville, PA
What excites you about participating in the Leadership Accelerator?
It is a great opportunity to connect, communicate, and learn from ASCPT leaders, mentors, as well as my fellow cohort members. I can also learn various aspects of ASCPT to better contribute to the community. I am looking forward to leveraging my learning from this program to benefit the QP2 group I am currently working with.
What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
Early in my career, I supported the successful submission and approval of Sivextro for the treatment of skin infections in adolescent patients. It was the first time that I realized that my work could really benefit patients. This experience motivated me to keep developing my expertise to deliver medicines to patients.
Who has inspired you in your career?
My mom is my first role model. She inspired me with her dedication and diligence when I was young. When I was in school, I learned how to be a successful scientist from my PhD supervisor Dr Anna Schwendeman. In my own career, I feel very lucky to have met great mentors, colleagues, and friends who have been willing to share their experiences and provide advice to help me grow and improve throughout my career.
How do you keep focused and motivated?
I try to set clear short-term and long-term goals to keep myself focused. But I am also open to changes and new opportunities, and I adjust my goals accordingly. Curiosity and the impact we can make on patient lives are the main driving forces behind what I do.
When you are not working, how do you spend your free time?
I like to spend my spare time with my family, playing with the kids, or traveling together. I also enjoy learning new knowledge/skills. I also like to watch movies.
Dr Li has been a member of ASCPT since 2019.
