Roles Within the Pharmaceutical Industry

Michel Eppink

Prof. Dr.

Michel received his MSc. in Biology/Chemistry in 1993 from the University of Utrecht and his PhD in Biochemistry in 1999 from the Wageningen University. After that starting at Organon NV becoming Section Manager Downstream Processing Research. In 2009 Michel moved to Byondis BV (formerly known as Synthon) becoming Senior Director Downstream Processing, in 2024 he became Senior Director Process Development and since 2026 he is Senior Advisor at Byondis. From 2014 - 2024 he was Professor (part-time) at Bioprocess Engineering of Wageningen University and Research. In 2024 Michel started as Professor (part-time) at the Department of Biotechnology of TU Delft with focus on Industrial Biopharmaceutical Downstream Processing and since 2026 he is full professor and Department Head Biotechnology, Faculty Applied Sciences of the TU Delft. Michel Eppink has > 35 years of experience in Downstream Processing of large biomolecules.

Pieter Carrière

Pieter Carrière started his pharmaceutical career as a junior manufacturing operator, where he learned to perform GMP production of high-class pharmaceutical drugs in a LEAN and safe manner, as a member of a production team of the Operations department. In subsequent jobs in production, as a senior manufacturing operator and quality engineer, he also skilled himself in GMP document writing, deviation investigations, CAPAs and change controls. With 9+ years of production experience, he learned to value the practical improvement proposals and to appreciate the problem solving ability of the team. Currently, he works for Teva Pharmaceuticals as senior operator and he is works council member. In addition to his work at Teva Pharmaceuticals, Pieter is Chair of the ISPE Netherlands Emerging Leaders Community of Practice. During his session, Pieter Carrière will share his insights and personal experience on what working for pharmaceutical production entails and he will give an overview of career perspectives at this department — giving guidance to professionals and the ones who think about changing careers.

Hans Henskens

Hans Henskens has more than 25 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, with extensive expertise as a Qualified Person (QP) and quality leader in Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs). He holds a PhD from the University of Amsterdam and has occupied senior quality positions at companies including Selborne Biological Services, Banner Pharmacaps, Synthon Biopharmaceuticals, PharmSupport, Lonza, and Glycostem Therapeutics. Combining a scientific background in molecular biology with broad industry experience, Hans has been actively involved in the development and manufacture of startup companies in cell and gene therapies, supporting companies through international regulatory inspections and quality improvement initiatives. He currently works as an independent consultant and advisor, helping organizations through quality and compliance challenges while continuing to share his expertise through training, guest lectures, and industry collaborations.

Irene van Doormalen

Irene van Doormalen Leads the Analytical Sciences team at Ardena (QC and development for small molecules) and has more than 25 years of experience in analytical development within the pharmaceutical industry. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Analytical Chemistry from Fontys Eindhoven in 1997. During her career, she has held scientific and leadership positions at Organon, MSD, Synthon, Charles River Laboratories, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Symeres, and Ardena. Her expertise covers analytical method development and validation, stability studies, physicochemical characterization, and analytical project leadership. Irene has successfully led analytical programs throughout the full pharmaceutical development lifecycle. She combines strong scientific expertise with a pragmatic and results-driven approach to solving complex analytical challenges. Throughout her career, she has worked extensively within GMP and GLP regulated environments. She is passionate about developing talent and building high-performing teams. Today, she leads analytical scientists supporting innovative pharmaceutical development programs from development through commercialization. Her broad experience and leadership continue to contribute to the successful development of new medicines.

Ana Beatriz C. Ravanelli

CSV & Compliance Lead | Pharmaceutical Industry Expert  With over 10 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Ana Beatriz is a passionate quality and compliance professional specializing in Computer System Validation (CSV), Data Integrity, and Quality Assurance.  Having built an international career spanning multinational leaders like Boehringer Ingelheim, MSD, and Infosys, she brings deep expertise in navigating complex regulatory frameworks (such as FDA, EMA, and ANVISA) and driving digital compliance across global projects. Current Role: CSV & Compliance Lead (Based in Boxmeer, The Netherlands)  Background: B.Sc. in Pharmacy & Biochemistry (São Paulo University)  Industry Journey: 10+ years driving Data Integrity, Quality Assurance, and CSV across global pharma giants (Boehringer Ingelheim, MSD)  Passions: Mentoring team, compliance leadership, and continuous learning through books and travels.

Renjie Zhu

I am currently Sr Manager Automation and OT (Head of Automation and OT team) with experience leading automation and digital technologies at BMS CTF Leiden. My work focuses on OT systems, process automation, DeltaV, MES integration, and manufacturing technology, with a strong emphasis on reliable and compliant operations. I work closely with cross-functional teams to deliver automation improvements, system upgrades, and technology solutions that support manufacturing and operational excellence.