Mumbai, 4th October 2025:“Pharmacy isn’t just about what’s in your textbooks. It’s about applying knowledge, embracing innovation, and staying adaptable,” said Mr. Jeevan Kolhe, Senior Associate Scientist at Johnson & Johnson, while addressing aspiring pharmacists at NMIMS Mumbai.
Drawing from over a decade of experience in India’s pharmaceutical industry, Mr. Kolhe urged students to look beyond academics and gain real-world exposure. “The industry has evolved—from conventional drugs to biologics, cell and gene therapies, and COVID-19 vaccines developed with Indian collaboration. Understanding these shifts, especially the role of AI in quality control and manufacturing, is key to building a successful career.”
He outlined the diverse career opportunities in pharmacy today, including research and development, manufacturing, regulatory affairs, and data science. Sharing insights from his own journey, he said, “I began my career in R&D before receiving my master’s results. Though I was offered a lower salary, I accepted the opportunity. Flexibility, a willingness to learn, and clear goals make a big difference early on.”
Highlighting the societal value of pharmacists, Mr. Kolhe noted, “It’s not just about working in labs. In some places, patients mix antibiotics with tap water instead of purified water, risking infections. Educating communities and leveraging technology like AI—used to detect tablet defects in size, shape, or color can greatly enhance safety and efficiency.”
The event was hosted by Reg Sphere, the student-led Regulatory Affairs Committee of NMIMS. Dr. Meena Chintamaneni, Pro-Vice Chancellor, emphasized the importance of the “Three Cs”: Connections, Confluence, and Compliance. “Compliance is fundamental, but you also need to build networks and combine academic knowledge with real-world trends. You can’t work in silos anymore.”
Dr. Jagannath Sahoo, Dean of the Shobhaben Pratapbhai Patel School of Pharmacy & Technology Management, encouraged students to contribute to India’s growing pharmaceutical prominence. He highlighted India’s edge as a global pharma hub—thanks to its skilled workforce, strategic positioning, cost advantages, and innovations like biosimilars that improve drug accessibility.
