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Brittany, Consultant
- Cornell University, BA, Biological Sciences 2007
- Wyeth Biopharma, Cell Culture Development and Intern
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Cornell University, Research Assistant
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Health Advances: Bridging the Gap Between Science and Business . . .
As a biology major in college, I struggled to find an industry that would allow me
to marry my science background with my curiosities and interests in healthcare. I
realized my interest in research really went beyond the lab to the potential
application of the discovery and wanted to learn more about how the science was
applied to business. When I came across healthcare consulting and Health Advances
in particular, I realized that this company would allow me to do just that.
Even after a short time at HA, I have learned an incredible amount and have
realized the opportunities here to gain much greater exposure to all different
parts of the healthcare industry. You have the opportunity to talk to many doctors
and key opinion leaders, allowing you to learn about their fields from the people
doing the most exciting research. Every day is different and exciting because you
are constantly learning and problem-solving about a dynamic and challenging space.
Fun Facts . . .
- Traveled to China twice and studied Mandarin for one year
- Jay Leno went to my high school and gave me a personal tour of his office (and drink from his fridge!) when I went to his show
I’m a big fan of . . . ice cream, live music, sunny days, Sunday mornings, and HAcapella.
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Anna, Senior Analyst
- MIT, BS, Material Science and Engineering 2007
- Boston Scientific, Endoscopy R&D, Intern
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Health Advances: A Smooth Transition . . .
Coming from a more technical background, I feel that Health Advances eased
the transition to life as a consultant. The training program is very thorough,
making sure that each new employee gets exposure to the tools and concepts that
they may be facing on a day to day basis. My colleagues have been extremely
supportive to me and assist me whenever possible. With the completion of each
case, I feel that I have developed a new skill set that I can carry on to my
next case.
Fun Facts . . .
- Patent filed on a medical device for surgery
- In a boat that capsized in the Charles River
I’m a big fan of . . . the Yankees, Gilmore Girls, the Food Network, tennis, and figure skating.
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Dan, Consultant
- University of Oregon, BS, Biochemistry 2007
- Research Assistant, University of Oregon Institute of Neuroscience
- Research Internship, National Institutes of Health
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Health Advances: Simultaneous Training and Case Integration . . .
I have been impressed by the Training Program at Health Advances. We’ve had
training in every area of the healthcare industry while we are integrated into
real cases. Also, new hire training involves everyone in the company
(including senior management), so I got to know everyone quickly.
Fun Facts . . .
- Won a talent competition with a loungeroom piano
version of the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air theme
- Descendant of King Harold the Fair-Haired of Norway
I’m a big fan of . . . basketball and salsa dancing. |
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Dana, Recruiting Manager
- Babson College, BS, Marketing and Communications
- Peace Corps Volunteer, Small Business Development, Slovakia
- EF International Language School, Brighton, Director of Student Life
- EF AuPair, Regional Manager
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Health Advances: Committees that Work . . .
I have had my hands in just about everything at Health Advances. One of the benefits of
a small company is that you really do have the power to make an impact. There are all kinds
of internal committees which allow people to contribute and grow in ways which suit
their personal and professional development goals. If someone has a new idea or
identifies a specific need for the firm, we are always encouraged to join an existing
committee or form a new group to see if we make it happen. I enjoy the variety of
challenges and tasks associated with everything from the social committee to the business
development teams. I love being involved in the planning of company events – from the
casual BBQ or trivia night to the formal new year kick-off party. There is never a dull
day at Health Advances!
Fun Facts . . .
- Won $10,000 in a local radio contest
- Had a radio show in Slovakia called “Moonbase Tango”
- Got married barefoot on the beach in St. John
I’m a big fan of . . . the Red Sox and Patriots, the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, masters swimming and spicy food. |
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Gary, Associate
- Duke University, BSE in Biomedical Engineering
- Stony Brook University, MS in Biomedical Engineering
- Forest Laboratories, Intellectual Property Intern
- Internships with OSI Pharmaceuticals and Becton Dickinson
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Health Advances: Work/Life Balance . . .
I have been very pleasantly surprised at the importance that Health Advances puts
on a healthy work/life balance. While work comes first, Health Advances has always
been respectful of my commitments outside of work and allowed me to pursue many music
groups including the Civic Symphony Orchestra of Boston, an a cappella group, and a
vocal rock group. I’ve even taken some time off to film for the show in LA.
Fun Fact . . .
- Sings in Slapdash Graduate, a vocal rock band which made it to the
top 24 in NBC’s reality show, Star Tomorrow!
I’m a big fan of . . . losing money at poker, opera, Duke basketball, and eucalyptus steam rooms. |
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Jenn, Senior Analyst
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, BS, Chemistry, BS Biology
- Biosciences GTO, GE Global Research Center, Intern
- Essigmann and Dedon Laboratories, MIT, Student Researcher
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Health Advances: Training is Key . . .
In the few weeks I have been at Health Advances, I’ve confirmed what a great decision I made in coming
to work here. Having only a science background myself, in chemistry and biology, I had been a
little concerned with how well I would be able to pick up any market or finance-related skills
necessary for the job. Luckily, the training program at HA is quite thorough, and any questions
I have are quickly answered by any number of people when I stop by their cube to ask. Everyone
is so friendly and fun, it’s the perfect atmosphere to work in.
Fun Facts . . .
- Spent a summer in Sydney, Australia
- Attended the Sydney Film Festival, Sundance Film Festival, and Florida Film Festival
I’m a big fan of . . . cooking and baking (mmm pastries!), knitting fun things, and medium-format photography when I have the time to spend in the darkroom.
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Jon, Senior Analyst
- MIT, MEng, Biomedical Engineering 2007
- MIT, BS, Mechanical Engineering 2006
- Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology in Singapore, Research Intern
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research BioImaging Center, Research Intern
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Health Advances: Amazing People and Amazing Talent . . .
In a field like consulting that is so dependent upon group meetings and interactions
the most important thing is the people that make up the firm. I am proud
to say I am glad to be part of this close-knit family. I am awestruck each day by
both the natural brilliance of each employee as well as each person’s passion for their
work and each other.
Fun Facts . . .
- I can do a standing back tuck flip and a no-handed cartwheel
- I used to be a state-level 110M high hurdler
I’m a big fan of . . . singing, dancing, traveling, and reality TV!
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Jennifer, Professional Development Manager
- Board Certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, 2006
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Pediatric Resident, 2005
- Harvard Medical School, MD, 2002
- Luce Scholar, Chiang Rai, Thailand, 2001
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, BA, 1997
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Health Advances: Physician-Turned-Consultant . . .
After spending nearly a decade training to be a physician, I came to work at Health
Advances to broaden my experiences and the scope of my understanding of the healthcare
system. I enjoyed my clinical training, but found myself constantly asking why –
why was medical education designed the way it is, why are patient visits and office
organizations structured in the ways that they are, why are medications priced as
they are, and how does insurance work? Until we understand the current healthcare
system, we won’t be able to make it better! Working for Health Advances has given
me a unique opportunity to learn about the larger world of medicine and how it works
by allowing me to problem-solve in a wide range of settings, including both for-profit
companies and foundations.
Fun Fact . . .
- I currently specialize in cube visits for curling injuries, hacking coughs,
falling in ditches, inexplicable rashes, and growth and development questions
from new parents.
I’m a big fan of . . . the Red Sox, the Patriots, and the Tar Heel blue in my blood. |
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Jennifer, Senior Analyst
- MIT, BS in Biology and minor in Management
- Genzyme Corporate Development and Global Policy Programs Summer Intern
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Health Advances: Applying Academics to the Industry . . .
Health Advances has been a great fit for me so far. Coming out of college as a biology
major and management minor, I have been able to apply the basic knowledge I learned in school to
the work that I am doing. I’m constantly learning while on the job, which is something I
really enjoy. Consulting for a company that focuses purely on
healthcare has turned out to be exactly what I was looking for because I can stay
in tune with the newest developments in the biotech and pharma space.
I’m a big fan of . . . chocolate, the MOMA, listening to my iPod, and sunny but chilly days.
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John, Associate
- Connecticut College, BA, Economics, Biology
- Avenue Capital Group, Hedge Fund Intern
- Officer Candidate, United States Marine Corps
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Health Advances: Experience as a New Hire . . .
From my first weeks at Health Advances, the training brought me quickly up
to speed so that I could actively participate in client meetings with biotech
management. For instance, within my first two months, I had direct conversation
with the CEO of a growing device company in the obesity space. Initial new hire
training covers everything from regulatory affairs and reimbursement to financial
modeling, enabling analysts to be heavily engaged in casework. There are also
opportunities for continued training and advancement during frequent healthcare
lunch presentations given by the consulting staff. Most noteworthy as a new
hire early in my career was the opportunity to immediately feel like part of a
team. Health Advances’ open-door atmosphere makes it a satisfying place to work.
Fun Facts . . .
- Four-time water balloon toss champion.
- 2006 Health Advances annual balloon stomp champion.
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Kim, Vice President
- Bates College, BS, Biology
- Harvard Medical School, MMSc
- Harvard University, PhD
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Health Advances: Science and Healthcare . . .
I have always loved science and medicine but found careers in either could become monotonous. I wanted to find a way to be involved
in bringing new therapies to patients in a career with more personal interaction than is
typical in research. Working at Health Advances allows me to continually apply my science
and medical education to new questions. I am always learning new skills and information
and constantly challenged intellectually while also getting to work closely with teams in
an interactive environment.
Fun Facts . . .
- I have foam letters (for kids) in my shower and my roommate and I write creative messages every morning
- I went to Pakistan for vacation
- I have told cab drivers in seven different countries that I am in international arms dealer (but not in Pakistan)
I’m a big fan of . . . my Bernese Mountain Dog, World Cup and English premier league soccer, everything outdoors, and internet on airplanes. |
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Marie, Partner
- University of Vermont, BA, Chemistry, magna cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society
- Gel Sciences, Inc., Project Scientist, Polymeric Drug Delivery Systems
- Arqule, Inc., Production Scientist, Combinatorial Chemistry, Synthesis and Production
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Health Advances: Diabetes and Finding Better Solutions . . .
I head up our diabetes practice at Health Advances. Diabetes product development has a
personal connection for me as I have had type 1 diabetes for over 20 years and my father
has type 2 diabetes. At the current growth rates, most of us will have a family member
affected with diabetes in our lifetime. Through our casework, I have had the unique
opportunity to touch upon all aspects of diabetes research and development and have
been fortunate to be involved in some key decisions that have resulted in more effective
therapies moving through the clinic. Our clients in this area range from early start-up
companies just being spun out of universities to established pharmaceutical companies
with mature diabetes franchises to non-profit organizations trying to accelerate the
pace of innovation.
Fun Facts . . .
- Started as an Analyst at Health Advances nine years ago
- Work closely with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) to accelerate diabetes development efforts
- Won my 5th grade juggling contest . . . and who says I have no hobbies!
I’m a big fan of . . . laughing with my two girls, good dinners with my husband, Starbucks and running.
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Mark, Partner and Managing Director
- Dartmouth College, BA, Engineering Sciences, Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa
- Stanford University, MBA, Arjay Miller Scholar
- Bain & Company, Partner, 10 years
- Health Advances, Co-Founder, 16 years
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Health Advances: Working with the Smartest and Nicest People Around . . .
I am extremely proud of Health Advances – our people, our integrity, and our clients'
accomplishments. It is extremely gratifying to frequently receive compliments from
senior industry executives about our insights and our people. Working in small teams
with our clients, we are pioneering the successful commercialization of new medical
technologies to improve peoples’ lives. Our firm understands – perhaps better than
any other consulting firm - the nuances of referral patterns, clinical decision making,
and reimbursement. Rather than fear these issues as impediments, with our advice,
our clients navigate them as competitive weapons.
Fun Facts . . .
- Started three businesses before I went to college
- Scrimshander (etch designs on whalebone for jewelry)
- Designed diagnostic for erectile dysfunction as college thesis
I’m a big fan of . . . my wife, my kids and all their teams and clubs, the seacoast, travel, and eating! |
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Pat, Senior Graphics Specialist
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA BFA, Graphic Design
- THINK New Ideas, Presentation Designer
- Genigraphics Corporation, Sales
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Health Advances: Graphics . . .
As the graphics specialist I get to be involved in every case at Health Advances. So by
osmosis I have absorbed a fair amount of healthcare knowledge. Since we do a large variety
of different types of work, my job is never boring. The consultants here at Health Advances
are always challenging me to think of new graphical concepts for our reports.
Interests . . . Over the past three years, my husband and I have been systematically painting every room in our house, as well as the exterior. When not peeling 40-year old wallpaper, I enjoy watching movies with my son and husband, gardening, cooking and walking.
I’m a big fan of . . . Cream soda, New Jersey, and anything free. |
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Sheela, Vice President
- Stanford University, BA, Human Biology
- Harvard Business School, MBA
- Senior Research Manager, The Advisory Board Company
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Health Advances: Working with Early-Stage Companies . . .
One of the reasons I joined Health Advances was for the opportunity to work with new ventures and
get hands-on experience with the key issues involved in founding and developing a new business.
Health Advances works with portfolio companies of several venture capital firms and has been
directly involved in starting new businesses. This year, I worked with three venture-backed
diagnostic and device companies. In these cases, my teams worked closely with the founders
and managers to evaluate key strategic issues, such as which customers to first target,
what exit options to consider, and how to position the companies to attract investment.
I find it exhilarating to work with these clients, as they are closely involved and
invested in their businesses and strongly rely on our strategic advice. This exciting
client base definitely distinguishes Health Advances from many of the larger consulting firms.
Fun Facts . . .
- Have traveled to over 20 countries, including Guatemala, Sri Lanka, and Morocco
- Obsessed with crossword puzzles and People
- Appeared as an extra in “The Recruit”
I’m a big fan of . . . cappuccinos, live music, and the beach! |
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Sonia, Consultant
- Brown University, BA, Community Health, Economics 2006
- Associate Consultant, The Lucas Group
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Health Advances: One of a Kind . . .
Having a year of general management consulting experience before joining Health
Advances, I was blown away by the amazing environment at HA. Consulting is tough
to define before beginning work, but it essentially involves learning as much as
possible about a given set of topics in order to provide an educated solution or
set of answers to a client. In the healthcare universe, the opportunities to
learn are both tangible and expansive, which is exactly what I was looking for.
Health Advances specifically is composed bright, motivated, decent and energetic
managers and peers who have truly defined the company for me. The diversity of
academic and professional experiences combined with each consultant’s passion
for health care makes the firm one of a kind.
Interests . . .
- Rock-Climbing
- Snowboarding
- Ultimate Frisbee
- Anything and everything that has to do with Brown University
I’m a big fan of . . . laughing, sleeping, NYT magazine, buying jeans, people-watching, recreational activities (see above) |
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Tara, Senior Information Specialist
- Wells College, BA, History and Russian Studies
- New Hampshire State Archives, Intern
- Manchester Public Library, Intern
- L.E.K. Consulting, US Information Manager
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Health Advances: Working With Information . . .
My specialty is being able to locate the “impossible-to-find” niche healthcare data.
It’s just part of the job description. I am a self-confessed news junkie and CNN
addict. I enjoy the creative environment here as well as the work ethic of my
colleagues. There is never a dull moment – who can be bored when investigating
cutting edge medical technologies so new that only a handful of surgeons have
even heard of the operation? Each day I am tasked, along with my fellow
professional colleague Claire, with finding the concrete data which will
enable our case teams to develop insights for our clients. Real questions,
real challenges in a team setting which has a direct and visual impact on
each of our clients.
Fun Facts . . .
- Lives so far West no one owns car alarms or locks their doors
- Believes personality was used to create Hermione character in Harry Potter books (“took it out for some light reading”)
- Quilt addict, loves to bake, never enough time to read
- Childhood dream of appearing on Jeopardy
I’m a big fan of . . . Dove dark chocolate, being organized, and Mythbusters! |
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Vivek, Manager
- Washington University in Saint Louis, PhD, Molecular Cell Biology
- Washington University in Saint Louis, Co-Director, BioEntrepreneurship Core
- Boston University, MA, Biotechnology
- Boston University, BA, Biochemistry/Molecular Biology
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Health Advances: Broad Exposure with an Opportunity to Specialize . . .
One of the key attractions that brought me to Health Advances was the opportunity to work across multiple
therapeutic areas and product types in the healthcare space. Since joining the firm, I have worked
with clients developing therapeutics, devices, or diagnostics for HIV, obesity, heart failure,
hepatitis C infection, and prostate cancer just to name a few.
Fun Facts . . .
- I grew up wanting to be an aeronautical engineer
- I have known my wife since I was 12
I’m a big fan of . . . the Los Angeles Lakers, spending time with my two daughters and wife and the 100s of news alerts I receive daily. |
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