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She never planned to make a career out of clinical drug development. In fact, after receiving a broad background at Judson College in biology and chemistry, graduating in 1988, she headed to Auburn University for vet school but ended up working with other students and professors doing research for the Pharmacy school. And the door of opportunity slowly opened for Dr. Evelyn Ellis-Grosse...
She began her career as a clinical pharmacokineticist with Wyeth Pharmaceuticals in Pennsylvania where she was involved in research projects related to infectious diseases and topics on the cardiovascular, women’s health, transplants, oncology and hematology. Grosse worked her way up the ranks at Wyeth early on, first as a senior clinical pharmacokineticist, then as assistant director and finally director of the cardiovascular and infectious disease department.
"Managing and overseeing a full division of Clinical Research and Development was an area outside of my speciality," she says. "But I was offered this fantastic opportunity and I never looked back! I love what I do because it’s not a simple recipe found in a cookbook... science is evolving and ever-changing, as does the regulatory environments and medical needs around the globe."
And, around the globe Grosse’s research has taken her – to more than 25 countries, from central and South America, through Europe to Asia. In Mumbai India, she met peasants so poor that they were unable to seek medical attention, existed under a tarp and washed clothes in a puddle of rainwater.
"To contrast, within the same city I've dined with those living behind luxurious gated homes with private drivers and a security entourage, entering only the most exclusive cricket club in all of Mumbai/Bombay. Stepping out of your comfort zone and into new situations can show you that you are capable of achieving or succeeding at much more than perhaps you had originally believed."
Besides her accomplishments in clinical research in other countries, Grosse established e2gBiopharmaceutical Consulting in Marietta, Ga. - a company that provides global drug development counsel - was honored by the American Chemical Society with the "Heroes of Chemistry Award" in 2006 for her work in the development of Tygasil – a drug that treats pneumonia, among other things, and which she considers her greatest accomplishment – and holds two U.S. patents with another fellow researcher as an inventor of Vasopressin Antagonist and Diuretic Combination.
Grosse attributes the foundation for her success as having received a "well-rounded education in an encouraging environment" during her undergraduate years spent at Judson. "I believe that my years at Judson certainly played a role in making me a stronger, more confidant woman. I believe that confidence really plays a big role in professional success."
As a Judson girl, Grosse also took advantage of classes offered for Judson’s equine program and, when she has spare time, still finds enjoyment from riding or fox hunting her horse Willow.
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