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I am ASCPT: Sihem Bihorel

Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 2/1/2025 12:00:00 AM

Sihem Bihorel

Sihem Bihorel, PharmD, PhD, Senior Director, Merck & Co, Inc, Chalfont, PA

What does being the biologics community vice chair mean to you?
I am truly honored to hold the role of Vice Chair for the Biologics Community at ASCPT. This position not only allows me to engage closely with top experts in clinical pharmacology focused on biologics but also presents a remarkable opportunity to shape the future of our community. I am enthusiastic about fostering collaboration among scientists from pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, governmental bodies, contract research organizations, and academia. Through avenues such as webinars, specialized publications, and conference sessions, we aim to advance knowledge and collectively tackle the challenges in biologics drug development. Together, we can make significant strides toward overcoming these obstacles and driving innovation in our field.

What professional accomplishments are you most proud of?
My two proudest professional achievements reflect both the impact I have had on drug development and the people I have had the privilege to inspire. First, I successfully integrated clinical pharmacology with MID3 capabilities, demonstrating their immense value and tangible results to various stakeholders and functional areas within my organization and throughout my previous academic career and ASCPT. Guiding others to unlock their potential and witness their growth is one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey.

What is the most important leadership lesson you have learned the hard way?
The most valuable leadership lesson that I have learned, sometimes the hard way, is the power of embracing feedback and being open to changing course when necessary. It is easy to get deeply invested in a strategy you believe in, but that passion can sometimes blind you to better options. True leadership is not about sticking rigidly to one path—it is about listening, really hearing the insights of others, and having the courage to adapt. Growth and success come from the ability to evolve, and that flexibility is what turns good leaders into truly effective ones.

What has been the greatest challenge in your career?
One of the greatest challenges in my career has been mastering the art of navigating competing priorities and managing my time effectively. At times, it can feel overwhelming to prioritize tasks and ensure everything gets done. But over the years, I have learned how to approach this challenge strategically, sharpening my ability to focus on what truly matters. By refining this skill, I have been able to navigate high-pressure situations and consistently deliver results. It is a continuous journey, but embracing time management as a powerful tool has made all the difference in driving success.

What was your childhood dream job?
When I was a child, my passion for history sparked in middle school, and I dreamed of being an archaeologist. I could vividly imagine myself uncovering ancient cultures, exploring how civilizations lived, and unlocking secrets of the past. That passion remains alive in me today. I nurture it by reading extensively and traveling as much as I can, visiting historical sites, and learning about diverse cultures across the globe. History continues to fuel my curiosity and inspires my journey of discovery.

What's the one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
One thing that might surprise people about me is that I am a passionate home cook who loves experimenting with flavors in my free time! I thrive on trying out new recipes and exploring diverse cuisines. Cooking not only fuels my creativity but also pushes me to continuously learn and grow, much like in my professional journey.

Dr. Bihorel has been a member of ASCPT since 2016.

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