Name: Maxine Gowen
Current Company: Trevena
Title: President & CEO

Profile: Armed with an MBA from Wharton and a Ph.D in cell biology from the University of Sheffield, maybe it's not so surprising to see Gowen jump nimbly across continents and biopharma disciplines. A 15-year stint at GlaxoSmithKline includes time spent orchestrating investments for SR One as well as a leadership role at the Center of Excellence for External Drug Discovery. And she made an ideal founder for Trevena, which is dedicated to using GPCR-targeting tech to advance new drugs along ideal pathways.

Under Gowen's direction, Trevena built up a staff of about 30, pushed its lead program to the threshold of Phase II, raised a $35 million round that will fuel its drive toward proof-of-concept data and nailed a $7.65 million NIH grant--the kind of non-diluted funding most developers dream about. Gowen doesn't rule out an eventual buyout. But whatever the future holds for Trevena, Gowen will be even better prepared for the next step in her career.

1. What advice would you give to women just starting out in biotech?

Focus on doing the best possible job you can in your current role. Don't be shy about asking for the next job when the right time comes, but don't be too worried about having a long term career plan. It will all work out.

2. What do you think has contributed to your success in this industry?

I have always taken great care at every stage of my career to be well enough informed to make good decisions and show good judgment. It's important to take the time to do this and not be in too much hurry to see career "progression." In addition, I have the highest regard for the abilities of my co-workers and am continuously learning and benefiting from them.