An entrepreneurial scientist who launched her own business almost 15 years ago is now changing lives with discoveries being made in her lab in Aberdeen.
Deborah O’Neil, chief executive and scientific officer at NovaBiotics, used her innovative spark to found her company and has never looked back.
Next month Dr O’Neil will take to the floor with a panel of experts to share her experience of starting a business from scratch in the first of a series of breakfasts brought to you by The Press and Journal.
Sponsored by Deloitte and Turcan Connell the first event will look at entrepreneurs and their journey from concept to reality.
Dr O’Neil said: “I started NovaBiotics 14 years ago to hasten the route of some promising research in the laboratory to making people’s lives better through improved health. NovaBiotics has since developed and tested drugs right here in Aberdeen for the treatment of cystic fibrosis.
“Aberdeen has provided a unique and specialised life sciences community which has been instrumental in helping to grow the business. For every breakthrough there are setbacks.
“No one ever said innovation was easy. Commercialising scientific innovation, antibiotics in particular, is an increasing challenge across the global biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.
“But every success we have had at NovaBiotics, even if it is a tiny step, is a triumph because what we do matters to people. That is very rewarding.”
Graeme Sheils , partner at Deloitte, said: “We are delighted to be partnering and supporting the P&J on this new initiative.
“The business breakfast series will provide an ideal forum for local businesses and entrepreneurs to discuss and share perspectives on topics relevant to all businesses and sectors in Aberdeen and the north-east.”
Alexander Garden, partner and head of tax and succession at Turcan Connell, added: “We are delighted to again be supporting the P&J in the breakfast series and particularly happy to be involved in this event.”