Can you describe yourself in three words?
I’m definitely someone who values honesty, and I was raised to always speak my mind (within reason, of course). If you’re thinking of something, there’s a good chance someone else in the room is too, but they might not have the courage to ask the question.
I’ve also become quite resourceful over time. If someone’s ever unsure where to find something, I’m usually the one who can figure it out or know exactly who to ask.
Lastly, I’m naturally very inquisitive. Back in school, I actually won an award for asking so many questions and my curiosity certainly hasn’t faded. Even in my 20s, I still find myself constantly asking “why” and digging a little deeper into everything.
You went to Swansea University to study Medical Pharmacology. When did you first realise this was something you wanted to do?
Attending university wasn't something I was entirely set on. Throughout school I always gravitated towards subjects such as maths and science as I appreciated their clarity and the fact there's usually a definitive answer, unlike more interpretive subjects.
At 18 I initially applied to study Chemical Engineering and was accepted into Swansea University. However, I then spontaneously decided to take a gap year to travel across Southeast Asia and Australia.
After returning to Somerset, I worked in Waitrose but soon decided I wanted to go to university. Whilst looking into my options, I noticed Swansea University had introduced a new Medical Pharmacology course, so I applied and was successful in getting in. It felt really exciting to be part of the first cohort of Medical Pharmacology students there.
What drew you to a career in the life sciences sector and how did your career path lead you to TauRx?
After graduating in 2021, I was eager to find a position that aligned with my degree. I thoroughly enjoyed my course, and I was excited to apply what I had learned. Not long after, I came across a job opening for a Drug Safety Specialist at ProPharma which closely mirrored the type of work I had in mind. I was involved in monitoring patients receiving the COVID vaccine, which allowed me to expand my knowledge beyond what I learned at university.
An opportunity came up at TauRx, and I was especially drawn to the company’s focus on Alzheimer’s disease research - a cause close to my heart, as my great-grandmother passed away from the disease. Having witnessed its impact firsthand, the chance to contribute to research in this area felt particularly meaningful to me.
Can you tell us about your role as a Pharmacovigilance Specialist at TauRx?
I’m involved in a range of tasks that vary from day to day. Primarily, I oversee and help monitor studies as well as coordinate the reviews of associated plans for our studies. I’m part of the Drug Safety Oversight team, so a big part of my job is ensuring trials are conducted properly, because patient safety is at the forefront of everything we do.
It’s hard to say what a typical day looks like because it does change. Each day can bring a new challenge, but I'm always confident in how I handle and adapt to these challenges!
What has been the main highlight of working at TauRx so far?
The fantastic team. The structure at TauRx is truly unique, I've worked in other places where you wouldn’t know the CEO's name, but at TauRx you can speak to everyone. Even though I work remotely, it feels completely seamless when I visit the office as the team is so well connected.
What are your top priorities in the year ahead?
One of our recent priorities has been finalising our application to the UK Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Agency (MHRA). This has now been submitted and we’re awaiting the outcome.
Within my own personal journey, I feel like I am progressing well in the company. Peer validation is nice, but I know myself that I am doing well and I’m always happy to offer more.
Can you tell us the role you played in TauRx’s submission to the MHRA and a bit about what a positive outcome would mean to you?
While I wasn’t directly involved in the submission, I did play a role in ensuring that the data from the Drug Safety Oversight team and the Data Science team were aligned.
From a personal point of view, it would be great to get a treatment that’s been in development for over 20 years across the finish line. Knowing I contributed, even in a supporting role fills me with pride – especially as we work through the final hurdles one by one.
Of course, this is a huge milestone for TauRx, as well. Seeing the progress made is exciting and it is testament to the dedication of everyone involved.
What is the best professional advice you can give, or you have been given?
There are three answers to this question:
- Be confident in the work you’re producing. For me, the most important thing is being confident in my work and knowing everything inside out.
- It is important to understand the broader context of your work, to understand what we do and why we do it.
- Keep your head down, keep working and good things will come.
Can you tell us something about yourself that would be a surprise to most people?
I’ve just signed up to run the Cardiff Half Marathon this October, in support of SANDS, our workplace charity.
I started running at the end of March and have completed a few 10Ks since then. The half marathon will be my longest distance yet, but I’ve been sticking to a good routine of running three times a week, so I’m hopeful I’ll be ready in time. October will come round quickly, but I’m excited for the challenge! People can donate to my fundraiser here: https://cardiffhalf25.enthuse.com/pf/tom-hemmens
Fun fact - I’m also ambidextrous, as I can write with both hands and kick with both feet. Naturally I’m left-handed and right footed, but I can do things with both.
