Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone

Alumnus from 2024, Berlin region

“As a scientist, I was always absorbed by the research itself. My focus was on experiments, data, and publications, and while I was always interested to move towards translation, there was a lot I still needed to learn. Entrepreneurship felt like something far away. 

Joining GeneNovate changed that for me. It was eye-opening to realize how much I hadn’t considered: intellectual property, regulatory pathways, business models, and especially how to communicate science in a way that intrigues others. The program gave me the chance to step out of my comfort zone, work with people from different backgrounds, and to pitch in front of investors at the GeneNovate final event. 

Now, a year later, our startup Epithelica GmbH has been founded, a spin-off company developing groundbreaking gene editing therapies for underserved skin diseases. We are now in the late preclinical stage, and the skills I gained in GeneNovate such as designing a clear pitch, understanding investor perspectives, and thinking beyond the lab, are directly shaping how we approach fundraising and build relationships with potential partners and investors. 

A particularly important moment was when the GeneNovate team connected us to the Clinical Incubator (CLIC) of the Berlin Institute of Health. Thanks to that introduction, Epithelica is now a resident startup at CLIC, benefitting from an incredible ecosystem of mentors, investor networks, and translational support. 

Looking back, I realize that without GeneNovate, I might still be thinking only like a researcher. Now, I also think like an entrepreneur, working to turn science into something tangible that can one day help patients.”