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 Ananya Dubey, Vice President of Business and Strategy at IonDX, Inc.
Q. What was your motivation to volunteer with CASSS?
I have always enjoyed the opportunity to network with industry colleagues and hear scientific best practices within the biopharmaceutical community. CASSS really provides a unique avenue to grow as a professional by interacting with professionals.
Q. What do you do to relax? Do you have any hobbies?
My choice of relaxation has changed throughout my life. Now as a working mother of a four-year-old, I enjoy both my me-time (like trail running) and watching our daughter do her hobbies like karate. Hiking remains one of my other favorite activities. Nothing beats Nature!
Q. What's your favorite type of food or special dish you cook? Why?
I love Ethiopian, Cambodian, and Japanese foods. I can be an adventurous eater but not on the cooking front. I enjoy making seafood/fish dishes. It takes me back to my roots, growing up in eastern India where fish is a staple of life.
Q. What is your favorite movie, tv show, music, or book?
I like oldies- "Sound of Music" is one of my favorite movies, love B0's music, "Golden Gir1s" makes me laugh so hard and I enjoy reading the likes of Pablo Neruda and John Steinbeck. Steinbeck's "The Grapes of Wrath" is one of my favorite books. I love his literary style that has a beautiful balance of historical gravity, societal relevance, subtle humor, and earthiness.
Q. What famous person (dead or alive) would you choose to have dinner with? Why?
I would love to sit down with Swami Vivekananda who was an Indian philosopher and monk who brought spiritual awareness around the globe. He was so far ahead of his time on his way of thinking about religion, spirituality, and humanity.
Q. What’s your favorite travel experience?
Nepal was stunning! Not just because of its majestic natural beauty but the loving nature of Nepali people and their hospitality. For very similar reasons, Japan is another travel destination I love.
Q. What would people be surprised to know about you?
I used to own and ride a Kawasaki Ninja 400 bike!
Q. How did you get inspired to go into science/biotech/pharma industry?
My early inspiration of pursuing a scientific career comes from my father who always encouraged curiosity. Also, my graduate program was a blended one that combined science/technology with business. This enabled me to understand the wider impact of biotherapeutics development.
Q. If you did anything other than your current occupation, what would it be?
I think I would enjoy being a teacher. Not just because I love to talk but feel really passionate about youth development.