Inclusion and diversity are critical values embedded within the culture of Bristol Myers Squibb, never more so than today as we continue to work toward “more successes in the challenging endeavor of discovering new transformational drugs to help patients,” according to Francisco Ramírez-Valle, MD, PhD, currently Senior Vice President and Head of the BMS Immunology and Cardiovascular Thematic Research Center. His rationale is both concise and astute. “If everybody looked the same, thought the same way, worked the same way,” he added, “there would be no innovation.”

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A Passion for Science of all Sorts

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Francisco’s passion for science began early at home as well. “I, too, come from a family of teachers in Mexico,” he said. “The emphasis on education when I was growing up gave me access to many scientific subjects as a kid including paleontology, zoology and eventually virology. I came to the US during high school. Despite my good grades in Mexico, I was put in basic classes until my teachers convinced the counselors that I needed to be in more advanced courses. That experience really instilled in me the value of mentors, advocates and coaches.”

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After high school, Noe’s education continued in Mexico, first with a BS in Pharmaceutical Biology and Chemistry, followed by an MS in Immunology, a PhD in Molecular Biomedicine, and finally post-doctoral work in New York City. But after years in academia committed to immunology, he re-discovered an earlier passion for drug discovery. “I discovered that I could use my immunology training and focus on making an impact on patients’ lives,” he said. “I originally thought you had to pick one or the other: biochem and lab, or pharma industry. But like almost everything in life, there are no absolutes, and you can find common ground between two or more things you have a passion for.”

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A Culture to Celebrate and Champion

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In BMS, Francisco found a culture and mission in sync with his own scientific objectives and values. “At BMS, the commitment to the patient is the number one priority,” he said. “We create a very collegial, collaborative and kind culture. And humility is a big part of that. Lab work is a trial-and-error process; you’re always learning as you go to move on and accomplish the mission.”

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Meanwhile, Noe’s journey from post-doctoral fellow to research investigator in translational medicine came from a desire to explore new avenues where his career might take him – even if it was out of his comfort zone.

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“People were recommending that I look into BMS because of their incredible pipeline of immuno-oncology research and results,” Noe said. “I was trained in immune response against infectious diseases, but this really piqued my interest, and yes, there is some overlap between the two areas. When I discovered they were opening a new facility in Cambridge, MA, and I read a job description, it felt like it was tailored for me. I gave it a shot and during the interview, I felt I was talking to long-time colleagues. The ambitious objectives and programs were exactly what I was open to. When the offer came, I didn’t hesitate for a second and every day I’m thankful that I did accept.”

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Inspiring the Next Generation of Latinx/Hispanic Scientists and Mentors

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With Latinx/Hispanic scientists making up less than 10 percent of scientists in the United States according to Zippia, Francisco and Noe value their roles as mentors, coaches, supporters and sponsors to provide inspiration and guidance to the next generation of scientists creating transformational therapies. Their pride in the dedication of BMS to build upon that diversity is obvious.

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“I wouldn’t work at a company that doesn’t value diversity and inclusion,” said Francisco. “I believe it makes us stronger as people, and together, stronger as a company. We seek it out.”

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“Yes, absolutely,” added Noe. “And the company’s culture encourages participation, speaking up on how we can improve everything from inclusion to processes. In the upcoming years, we’ll have even more diversity within the fantastic minds that drive the science at BMS. I try and give back whenever I can. I do that right now with five junior scientists within my team, and I really try to be a mentor to them.”

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Advice to Their Younger Selves

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That said, is there any advice either Francisco or Noe might offer to a younger version of themselves, now that they’ve covered a lot of career ground?

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“Don’t be afraid to ask teachers, parents, mentors, anyone,” said Noe. “This is critical. They are there to help you, but they can only help if you reach out. Here at BMS, and when I was younger back in Mexico, there were opportunities I was not aware of. You need to ask questions.”

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“And have an open mind,” added Francisco. “When I was younger, I thought I had it all figured out – PhD, lab, research, my research papers. Having an open mind and being able to pivot opened me up to the career that I have today. Allow yourself to experiment as you move through life.”

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If experienced, successful and generous colleagues like Noe and Francisco are the type of co-workers you’d like to work alongside, you owe it to yourself to discover early-career or more experienced options available at Bristol Myers Squibb in your area of interest. Learn more about BMS life, culture and careers here: careers.bms.com