Shibu Kaithalamattathil, MSD’s senior engineering specialist, explores day-to-day as an engineer in the biopharma environment and has the opportunity to watch his son enter the field.
Shibu Kaithalamattathil is a senior engineer at MSD Biotech in Dublin.
In this role, he oversees the day-to-day engineering activities that support production, “ensuring that machines, processes and systems operate safely, reliably and in full compliance with site standards”, he tells SiliconRepublic.com.
Kaithalamattathil says no two days feel the same in his job, which he puts down to the team and culture on site.
He says: “I really enjoy going to work every morning.
This has never been true, Kaithalamattathil says, it was last year, when he got a “unique opportunity”.
“My son Alan joined MSD Biotech, Dublin as an intern and worked on site alongside me,” he explains. “Alan studied chemical engineering in college and being able to work with him during that time was amazing, not only because of the pride I got knowing my son was following in my footsteps, but also the feeling that he was taking his first professional steps in what will be a very exciting and rewarding career.
“The way science is progressing, I think it’s safe to say that his day-to-day will end up being very different from mine, but there’s a lot of excitement in that.”
What skills do you use every day?
One of the things I enjoy most about my role is that every day I have to use technical and non-technical skills alike. My role is as much about dealing with machines, systems and equipment as it is about working with people, so it’s a mix of problem solving and communication, collaboration and project management skills. And at the heart of it, the biggest skill I think is problem solving, whether it’s looking at equipment or looking at our ways of working, is about being able to adapt and solve any problems or challenges as they arise. That’s something I think Alan experienced firsthand during his training. While at university, he concentrated on the technical side of things through science, engineering and chemistry. In all of STEM, soft skills can sometimes be an afterthought. But on a day-to-day basis, no matter what area you end up specializing in, the skills that will come in handy are usually communication and problem solving.
What is the hardest part of your workday?
The most challenging part of the day is dealing with the unexpected. It creates a sense of excitement and learning, but at the same time it is always a challenge to manage unexpected breakdowns or problems, all this ensuring that the planned work is completed on time no matter what. That requires quick decisions and effective prioritization, as well as a real passion for problem solving. Whatever problem is in front of you, it’s about stepping back, looking at it from all angles and figuring out the best way to fix or fix it. It’s not just finding a solution, but making sure you get the best solution.
Do you have any productivity tips to help you through the workday?
I start my day by taking a few minutes to prioritize my workload, focus on important tasks and start working on my to-do list. Engineering roles can be fast-paced and unpredictable, so having a clear structure helps me stay focused and calm, even when challenges arise. I tend to break tasks down into small, manageable steps, which keeps me organized and makes it easier to stay motivated throughout the day. I also make a point to take short breaks to reorganize, especially during busy times. Staying fresh helps me think clearly and safely, both of which are important in the biotech environment. Finally, I have learned the importance of leaning on a team.
When you started this job, what were you most surprised to learn was important to the role?
I was impressed by the importance of flexibility. Even though I have many years of experience, I quickly learned that continuous learning is part of everyday life here. The facility is equipped with modern, state-of-the-art technology and systems that are constantly evolving as the industry evolves. Being open to new tools, new processes and new ideas was as important as any technical skill I came up with. Having my son on site, I tried to encourage those same habits and behaviors as I think it makes a difference. And it’s been great to see him continue with them, in his academic and technical development.
How has this role changed as the field has grown and developed?
The biopharmaceutical industry is growing rapidly and with that growth has come great advances in technology. My role has evolved from being more focused on engineering tasks to include data-driven decision making and working with advanced equipment, which I’m very excited about. Automation, digital systems and advanced monitoring tools have become part of our daily operations, allowing us to work more efficiently while maintaining high levels of safety and quality. I’m also sure that by the time Alan finishes university and enters full-time work, the role will have evolved even further, given the pace at which technology, automation and digital systems continue to advance across the sector. However, although the tools and processes have changed, what has not changed is the purpose of the work. We produce medicines that make a real difference to people’s lives and you can feel that sense of commitment guiding everything our team does.
What do you enjoy most about work?
What I am most happy about is the situation we are in. There is a real sense of community at MSD Biotech, Dublin. People are friendly, supportive and take pride in the work they do. It really feels like a home away from home in a way and that makes a huge difference in an industry where teamwork and trust are so important. Every day, I also work with colleagues who share the same commitment to quality and the same passion for improving patients’ lives. That always feels very powerful too. Seeing Alan walk into the same place where I work and watching him experience the same warm, welcoming atmosphere was a proud moment. It just reinforced everything I love about the job, the strong culture, the sense of belonging and the meaningful work we do every day.
Don’t miss out on the information you need to succeed. Sign up for Daily BriefSilicon Republic’s digest of must-know sci-tech news.
