Nurije Mustafi

When describing what it’s like to work in BD Biosciences (BDB), Dr. Nurije (pronounced Nur-ree-chay) Mustafi says it’s exotic and very different than the other BD businesses – even though all are focused on advancing the world of health^TM, which is the organization’s overall Purpose.

“For more than 45 years, BDB has been helping to advance science and assist in improving patient outcomes through flow cytometry¹,” Mustafi explained. “It’s been great to apply my knowledge and education to help our key clients identify the right solution for their needs across our large portfolio of flow cytometry technologies and BD FACS™ instruments.”  

What a PhD really taught Mustafi: Growth mindset and never give up attitude

Nurije graduated with PhD in Biotechnology from the University of Dusseldorf, where she also received an undergraduate degree in biology. In 2013, she successfully researched and defended her doctoral dissertation at the research institute Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH. The research is centered on “The development and application of a single-cell biosensor for the detection of L-methionine and branched-chain amino acids².”  Nurije has conducted several bodies of research along her educational journey.

“What my doctoral studies truly taught me was that you can work six months on an experiment and then your hypothesis does not work out, so then you are disappointed for a bit, but then you pick yourself back up and go to Plan B, and then sometimes you have to resort to Plan C, and so on. I think that experience really helped me become even more strong-willed and resilient when I come across any challenges in my work at BD,” said Nurije.

When the purpose of your work is also your passion

Prior to joining BD in 2018, Nurije, a native of Germany, held a variety of product manager and sales roles for a couple of Life Sciences companies in Europe: one mid-sized and family owned and the other smaller in size. Today, she is Key Account Manager for BDB in Switzerland supporting customers in the segment – many of whom are scientists and researchers working in the flow cytometry space for their company.

Nurije appreciates that no two days are alike at BD and every day there may be a new customer challenge for her to help solve.

“We have complex products and solutions and because of that, it’s so reassuring that BD has been working in the flow cytometry space for so long. We have such deep and rich experience to help our customers. One thing that I think makes BD stand out above other MedTech companies is the level of collaboration and support you will find here. You will never be alone when trying to solve something for our customers. There is always a team supporting you. I truly believe in our Purpose at BD and know that I am helping to make a difference in patients’ lives, which is rewarding,” said Nurije.

References:

1. https://www.bdbiosciences.com/en-us/products/instruments/flow-cytometers 
2. Mustafi, Nurije. The development and application of a single-cell biosensor for the detection of L-methionine and branched-chain amino acids. Schriften des Forschungszentrums Jülich Reihe Gesundheit/Health. Band/Volume 72. ISSN 1866-1785. ISBN 978-3-89336-956-0. 2013.