Can you share a memorable experience from your childhood that sparked your interest in STEM?
When I was younger, I spent most of my time playing basketball or doing gymnastics.
- Autumn
While I didn’t love math in school, it was actually my worst subject. I enjoyed learning about the physics of flips. I focused on understanding rotational motion and momentum, which helped me to achieve the perfect rotation and landing. Who knew years later I would use math to help create kits for patients?
Sabrina: I remember a time when I first looked through a telescope and saw tiny living cells up close, it was mesmerizing. I was completely fascinated by the idea that something so small could be so complex. I couldn’t believe that an entire hidden world existed beyond what the eye could see. That moment sparked my passion for STEM and ultimately led me to the pharmaceutical industry. Now, at Novartis, I work with cells every day to develop life-changing therapies that can truly make a difference.
How would you describe what you do?
Autumn: I help patients receive their medicine by assembling materials that the cell processors need to create the final product for the patient. liaise with multiple departments to ensure we have the correct materials in stock, so the patient process is not held up.
Sabrina: I work in biopharma, using patients’ cells to develop advanced treatments for diseases like cancer and genetic disorders. Instead of traditional drugs, we modify and engineer cells to help the body fight disease more effectively. It’s a cutting-edge field that turns biology into life-changing therapies, giving patients new hope where standard treatments fall short.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to your younger self?
Autumn: I would tell my younger self that everyone's timeline is different, and it is ok if you don't know what you want to do with your life right after high school. Everyone takes a different path to decide what they want to do and it’s important to not settle because you think others around you are further along in life than you.
I’d tell my younger self to stay curious and be patient.
- Sabrina
The challenges and setbacks you face aren’t roadblocks, they’re part of the process. Also, never underestimate the power of collaboration; some of the biggest breakthroughs happen when you work with others who share your passion. Most importantly, remember why you started, the work you do with patient cells isn’t just science, it’s changing lives.
How would you describe the community you have in the Morris Plains Manufacturing location?
Autumn: The community at Morris Plains has showed me what a safe work environment is like. Not only safe in the physical way, but a safe space to speak openly about different ideas and plans for your own growth. My direct team at Novartis is full of some of the hardest working and kindest individuals.
Sabrina: The community in Morris Plains is incredibly collaborative and supportive. It’s a place where everyone is working toward a common goal, bringing life-changing therapies to patients. Whether it’s in the lab, in meetings, or just casual conversations, there’s a strong sense of teamwork and shared passion for what we do. People are always willing to share knowledge, offer help, and push each other to be better. It’s an environment that fosters innovation, while also making you feel valued and inspired every day.
If you were not doing this, what would you do?
Autumn: If I wasn't working at Novartis, I would be working in the restaurant industry and considering pursuing a master’s degree in criminal justice. For the longest time I wanted to be a parole officer or a counselor in the prison system. I was always an advocate for fellow classmates and friends who needed a little push in the right direction to see the bigger picture in life. When I look back now I see that the career path I chose is similar to what I wanted to do; both careers require precision and teamwork. Whether you're ensuring justice or crafting quality products you need attention to detail and collaboration to make a real impact!
Sabrina: If I weren’t working in biopharma, I’d dedicate my time to helping animals, especially in reducing the number of unsheltered animals. I’ve always been passionate about animal welfare, and I’d love to work with shelters or rescue organizations to provide care, find loving homes for animals in need, and promote spaying and neutering programs. Just like my work now focuses on improving human lives, I’d want to make a difference for animals too and give them a second chance and ensuring they get the care and compassion they deserve.