Marc Pfister: «I don't just want to publish papers, I want to bring innovations to sick children»

12 September 2023

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In the '5 minutes with...' section, we introduce you to the researchers who work with the Paediatric Research Centre (PFZ) at UKBB. This time Marc Pfister answered our questions.

As a child I wanted...
Become an astronomer or musician.

I became...
Physician and clinical researcher.

What fascinates me about research is...
the daily challenges.

I gained my first research experience...
at the Inselspital in Bern, when I developed pharmacometric computer models at night after clinical work.

My long-term research goal is...
to optimise and personalise diagnostics, monitoring and therapy strategies in children in order to maximise clinical success while avoiding adverse effects.

«What I particularly appreciate about research is the collaboration with other experts.»

What I particularly appreciate about research...
the valuable and stimulating collaboration with other clinical experts and scientists.

With the PFZ I have...
successfully conducted and published several clinical studies in children.

My current project with the PFZ is...
the implementation of a clinical study at the UKBB («Observational Study»). This study is investigating the advantages of a new, child-friendly midazolam tablet that dissolves in the mouth within a few seconds and therefore has a rapid onset of action.

What I particularly like about my current job...
the versatility, the exchange with fellow doctors who know more than I do and with young scientists who are more intelligent than I am.

I am inspired and motivated...
the opportunity to work on innovative medical solutions that improve and/or prolong the lives of sick children.

«It's important to me that we challenge and encourage each other as a team.»

I would encourage an 18-year-old...
to live out his dream («Live Your Dream»).

My favourite way to relax after a busy day is to...
playing tennis or piano or playing cards with my family.

What is important to me...
that I and my colleagues learn new and exciting things every week and that we challenge and encourage each other.

What is surprising about me is...
that I am involved in several patents and have co-founded two start-up companies in Basel (www.NeoPrediX.com, www.Galvita.com).

One of the last books I read is...
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey.

I would take the following 3 things with me to a desert island...
Deckchair and two bottles of FOCUS WATER.