The Member Spotlight Q&A is part of an ongoing CASSS series, in which we invite members to meet other members of the CASSS Community.
The Member Spotlight is an ongoing Q&A series focused on getting to know the CASSS community. Today’s spotlight shines on Maura Kibbey, Director of Biologics Marketing at US Pharmacopeia.
Q. What was your motivation to volunteer with CASSS?
From the very beginning when the community was trying to grapple with the well-characterized biologic concept, CASSS was a place where industry and regulators came together to debate and solve challenging problems. This spirit is still in place today and one of the best places to continue these conversations.
Q. What do you do to relax? Do you have any hobbies?
I love hiking in the woods, practicing yoga, and spending time at the beach.
Q. What's your favorite type of food or special dish you cook? Why?
My favorite types of food are spicy Indian dishes year round and Italian in the winter when I wish for more comfort foods.
Q. What is your favorite movie, tv show, music, or book?
I love blues and jazz and many other types of music. My husband and I make a point of seeing musicians in all sizes of venues on a regular basis.
Q. What famous person (dead or alive) would you choose to have dinner with? Why?
The Dalai Lama. I have read many of his books and would love to talk to him about how he developed so many wonderful insights over his life.
Q. What’s your favorite travel experience?
Probably the most memorable city I've visited was Bruges. The town is just beautiful, rich with art, and you can chat at a cafe with someone next to you for hours.
Q. What would people be surprised to know about you?
Although I'm not teaching now, I am a certified yoga teacher/therapist and taught for several years.
Q. How did you get inspired to go into science/biotech/pharma industry?
I always liked to solve problems and was attracted to cancer research specifically. Although I haven't done basic research in many years, it's nice to be part of a field that is making a difference.
Q. If you did anything other than your current occupation, what would it be?
I would probably be a teacher. I love working with students and watching them get excited about science.