Dr Bernadette Whelan: Bridging industry and academia as a judge for the Pharma Industry Awards Ireland

By April Lara

June 06, 2024

Dr Bernadette Whelan, lecturer and Good Manufacturing Programme (GMP) leader in the Department of Science at South East Technological University (SETU) Waterford.

I am delighted to introduce Dr Bernadette Whelan, lecturer and Good Manufacturing Programme (GMP) leader in the Department of Science at South East Technological University (SETU) Waterford. With 14 years of experience in various roles within the pharmaceutical industry before transitioning to academia in 2000, Dr Whelan has continued to bridge the gap between industry and education. She has played a vital role in developing and delivering the Accumulation of Credits and Certification of Subjects (ACCS) programme in GMP, connecting her deeply with local pharma and medtech companies.

As one of the judges for the Pharma Industry Awards Ireland, Dr Whelan brings her extensive industry knowledge and academic insight to the evaluation process, ensuring the recognition of sustainable and impactful innovations in the sector.

Briefly tell us about your background in the pharmaceutical industry.

I worked in the pharma sector for 14 years before joining academia in 2000, in various analytical, QC, technical and Operations roles. I was recruited to deliver modules on a skills-based programme when I joined SETU Waterford (formerly Waterford Institute of Technology). This programme evolved to become an ACCS programme in Good Manufacturing Practice which is now delivered to personnel working in local pharma and medTech companies so I have retained a connection with the sector through my industry network.

What criteria do you prioritise when evaluating submissions for the Pharma Industry Awards?

I look for evidence that the changes introduced are sustainable and deliver the stated outcomes. I prefer a well-written submission clearly identifying the background and scope of the project, the actions, evidence and tangible metrics each company provide to illustrate the achievements, improvements and business growth in their operations and associated systems to gain competitive advantage. The cycle of never-ending improvement is very prevalent in all of the MNCs and SMEs.

How do you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and innovations within the pharmaceutical sector?

The offerings of online webinars and conferences by educational providers, consulting companies and practitioners are very useful and popular for me to attend to keep up to date and abreast of developments in the ecosystem. I find online notifications from the regulatory agencies very informative along with updates on their socials and websites. My part-time students bring a wealth of issues and current legislative and regulatory changes and I visit their facilities as often as time allows. I participate in the University’s School of Science and Computing Industry Board meetings.

Do you have a memorable experience from your time as a judge for these awards that you'd like to share?

There is always one memory which stands out each year, one company who demonstrates a high level of commitment across their unit/site. We all know the challenges of introducing change within highly regulated industries and it’s amazing to see the energy behind the successes. I really enjoy being a judge for the Pharma Industry Awards as it is a satisfying and interesting experience for me reading each submission and learning about how each company is managing their processes, the human capital piece is foremost in all of the submissions, enabling and developing the workforce makes each project a success.

In your opinion, how do collaboration and partnership drive innovation in pharmaceuticals, and how does this influence your judging approach?I learned years ago to steal shamelessly – if you see and hear about great practices that are innovative and novel then it is incumbent on us all to share the details and successes they bring. It is great to see collaborations being shared especially in a forum like the Pharma Industry Awards. I always wonder as to how a new development or way of working might work in another site / industry sector or academia.

Gain recognition for your accomplishments in the pharmaceutical sector. Register for The Pharma Industry Awards Ireland 2024. Secure your spot at the upcoming awards ceremony, where you'll have the chance to mingle with industry trailblazers and showcase your success.