Sergio Covarrubias, who leads the gene editing group at BioMarin, likes to tell anyone who’s listening that we live in an amazing time for genomic medicine.

“Only two decades ago, scientists sequenced the first complete human genome, and this sparked the genomic revolution,” says Sergio. “For my postdoctoral studies, I had the opportunity to join the genomics field, working on a new technology called gene editing. This technological breakthrough allows us modify DNA and pursue groundbreaking approaches to treating genetic conditions.

We interviewed Sergio, who is a senior scientist in Research & Development, in the latest installment of our new series about our people – “The DNA of BioMarin.”

Drawing inspiration from the four bases that constitute DNA – A (adenine), T (thymine), C (cytosine) and G (guanine) – we’re asking employees to reflect on the role that Aspiration, Translation, Connection and Gratitude play in their everyday work as part of this series.

Learn more about Sergio and how the science of DNA has driven his career ambition.

ASPIRATION
How did you get your start in the biopharma industry? What do you aspire to accomplish through your work at BioMarin and in your career?

Growing up in an immigrant family with limited financial resources, I would have never dreamed I’d one day enjoy a career in biotech. As a child, I had to take longer routes to school to stay away from gangs. For much of my life, I focused on survival rather than thriving.

Fortunately, I fell in love with science out of pure curiosity. A pivotal moment was my grandfather’s experience with medication that helped treat his arthritis, but also caused kidney toxicity. This made me question how medicines work and why they can be toxic. Additionally, I wanted to help patients understand their treatments. My Spanish-speaking grandfather struggled to understand his medication’s risks due to language barriers. This experience ignited my passion for science and using it to help people.

I went on to earn my doctorate in infectious diseases and immunity and initially found that academia gave me the opportunity to make an impact through publications. Nevertheless, I was left with the desire to have a more direct impact on patients’ lives. At BioMarin, I found a common passion and a shared interest for developing treatments for genetic conditions. The science I am leading directly fuels the development of next-generation therapies that may help countless individuals depending on our innovation.

CONNECTION
What role does connection play at BioMarin?

As a scientist, connections are crucial for innovation. Different perspectives can reveal unexpected solutions. During presentations, the best questions often come from those outside your field, showcasing the importance of diverse voices in science.

I was a shy, introverted kid. But while pursuing my Ph.D., I learned from my mentor that being a good scientist isn’t just about doing great science – it’s also about effective communication. Initially, public speaking terrified me. Now, I routinely present at outreach events, guest lectures and one-on-one meetings, particularly with undergraduate institutions.

In my role as the chair of BioMarin’s LatinX Employee Resource Group, I passionately support programs that aid the education of all people, including those who are traditionally underrepresented. As a Mexican American and first-generation college attendee, I understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate career paths. I emphasize that careers are not linear and value mentoring relationships. I cherish updates from the many undergrads and young scientists I’ve mentored throughout my career, and I feel fortunate that BioMarin has been so supportive of me continuing to form these connections.

GRATITUDE
Tell us about something you’re grateful for in your career, and why.

I’m extremely lucky to work with a fantastic group of people who are collaborative and hard-working individuals and have each other’s backs. Last year, I was on a hike with my kids when I slipped, landed very awkwardly and ended up tearing a muscle in my leg. For a few weeks, I couldn’t walk or do anything physical. My manager helped cover my responsibilities and shifted my tasks to accommodate remote work.

We all have days when we’re not at our best, but I know I can always communicate openly with my manager and count on my coworkers to help. I am beyond grateful to be part of such a supportive team.

TRANSLATION
How do you hope your work will translate into impact for the patient communities BioMarin is working to support?

Those of us who are involved in the process understand that the path to researching and developing a new medicine is long and filled with challenges. I’m a small part of this process, but a lot of what I do is motivated by the desire to make a positive impact in the lives of patients.

My own intrinsic scientific curiosity is another big motivator. I love puzzles and cells are some of the most complicated puzzles, with layer upon layer of different connections and levers. Many of the conditions we study require in-depth understanding of the cellular processes that are disrupted. My hope is that my love for puzzles can help us develop the best therapies.