Nordic Life Science 1
“I WAS FORTUNATE TO BENEFIT FROM THE GREAT OPPORT
UNITIES OFFERED IN SWEDEN IN THOSE TIMES TO WORK ACROSS ACADEMIC SCIENCE, HOSPITAL-BASED MEDICAL PRACTICE AND A TEAM-ORIENTED ENTREPRENEURIAL INDUSTRY CULTURE.” University where he became involved with the Swedish life science sector early on. He has a Ph.D. in tumor immunology and a Medical degree from Lund University. “I was fortunate to benefit from the great opportunities offered in Sweden in those times to work across academic science, hospital-based medical practice and a team-oriented entrepreneurial industry culture,” he says. “I also studied virology and immunology at the Weizmann Institute in Israel, which exposed me to the impact of diverse international talents on great science.” He eventually decided to pursue a career in industry to have an impact on more people and more global health issues. “Throughout my 30 years as a physician-scientist, I have been able to touch and lead many R&D projects that turned into approved life-saving medicines and vaccines. It is an amazing feeling when I see those products being used to improve patient lives in the U.S., Sweden, the European Union and across the globe,” he says. Mikael moved with his family to the U.S. about 15 years ago and today he lives in the New York city suburbs. When he is not working, he enjoys playing tennis and squash, running, and spending time with family and friends. “That allows me to do something different and to re-energize from the intense pace in the science world. If I am not staying busy, I get tempted to read about new scientific breakthroughs rather than relaxing. This is not good; we all need a balance in life,” he says. 48 NORDICLIFESCIENCE.ORG