Meet Ricardo Lima, Director, Regulatory Science & CMC!

ACADEMIC PATH AND MOTIVATIONS
I decided to study Pharmaceutical Sciences and, from the beginning, sought a career in research, which started while I was still at University. Later, I specialized in the Pharmaceutical Industry, with my path at BIAL definitely contributing to that decision.

WHY BIAL?
I joined BIAL over 20 years ago, shortly after finishing my studies. I decided to join the team for several reasons, among which I highlight the Environment – science is more captivating when you get hands-on experience, learning through practice, through mistakes, knowing that you are contributing to something tangible – the Brand – the only Portuguese pharmaceutical company conducting R&D in an integrated way – and, finally, the Path and the Goal: BIAL had a strong project and very clear objectives and was already paving the way in developing new treatments to improve patients' lives.

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO WORK AT BIAL?
If there is one word I could use to describe my experience with BIAL, it would be challenge. The work environment we live in makes us question even the most robust results and think of out-of-the-box solutions through innovative strategies that allow us to take the next steps. And this process, this constant questioning, is what has brought us to where we are today.

Another part of the challenge: the teams are not large. This means that people know each other, help each other, meet, share projects, a desk in an open space or a coffee in the canteen. This closeness makes us more agile and quicker at eliminating obstacles, reacting to unforeseen events, and better prepares us for future challenges.

THE JOURNEY AT BIAL
After joining the team, I was appointed Head of Pharmaceutical Development a few years later, at the age of 27, starting by managing a team of three people. I assumed the position of Associate Director, CMC after more than 20 years in R&D and left behind a team of 17 scientists who proudly and actively contributed to the development and launch of the two Portuguese innovative medicines. In January, I started a new phase, having simultaneously assumed the position of Director, Regulatory Science & CMC, a challenging position that excites and motivates me, continuing this journey at BIAL!