Gretel is a Cuban national currently residing in Switzerland since 2014. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Medical Psychology, both obtained in Cuba. Initially, her research endeavours were concentrated on Neuroscience, where she actively contributed to various projects.

Gretel’s academic journey led her to Switzerland, where she successfully completed her PhD in Neuroscience at the University of Lausanne. Subsequently, Gretel embarked on a post-doctoral position at the Biomedical Engineering Department of Basel University. In her current role, Gretel is dedicated to developing biomarkers to detect early changes in brain lesions related to Multiple Sclerosis.

Thriving in these multidisciplinary and challenging research environments, she has honed valuable soft skills such as effective communication, organization, and leadership.

Throughout her neuroscientific career, Gretel has been captivated by project management, recognizing the intricate integrations required for successful project execution. Motivated by this interest, she decided to pursue certification as a project manager, aiming to leverage her extensive research experience in a management capacity. Gretel’s goal for this year is to earn certifications, expand her professional network, and gain practical experience through an internship in the biopharma industry.

Gretel welcomes challenges, possesses a curious personality, and continually seeks opportunities for learning and skill development. Her venture into project management aligns with her desire to systematically organize the empirical knowledge acquired throughout her years in academia.

Joining the Swiss chapter is a testament to Gretel’s motivation for expanding her professional network. Gretel hopes to connect with fellow project management professionals, explore mentoring programs, and contribute through voluntary work in Switzerland. She is eager to hear diverse experiences and viewpoints from seasoned colleagues.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Gretel cherishes quality time with her family, enjoys dancing, and finds solace in reading.

You can learn more about Gretel by visiting her LinkedIn profile.

Pranav is a Senior AI Engineer. In the past, he worked side by side with project management aspects which he intends to combine this with his current job.

Pranav joined PMI Switzerland chapter, because of relevance to his country of residence, Germany. He also wants to get to know people in the domain of project management, from whom he can learns from, connects with, and contributes to PMI.

As hobbies, Pranav writes poetry, learns new things, calligraphy, listens and creates music.

You can learn more about Pranav by visiting his LinkedIn profile.

Vincent is a Belgian national, working at Breitling as a Business Performance and KPI Project Manager in Granges, Switzerland. He holds a master’s degree from EPFL in chemical engineering, as well as masters in Biotechnology and Business Administration from the Harvard Business School. Vincent has 5 years of experience in managing cross-functional projects within multinational companies, including Rolex and Novartis. He obtained his PMI certification in December 2023.

In his free time, Vincent enjoys scuba diving, participating in endurance running races, football, tennis, skiing and playing violin.

You can learn more about Vincent by visiting his LinkedIn profile.

Originally from Ukraine, Mariia has been calling Cham home since February 2023. With a rich background in administrative support, attained through working within diverse sectors, at NGOs, Government, and Intergovernmental Organizations, Mariia has also delved into the corporate world with a two-year stint at SAP in global finance. She is currently working in EULAR (Zurich) as a Communication and Communities Assistant.

Having worked in Ukraine and the Czech Republic, Mariia possesses a broad understanding of different cultures and work environments, enriching her professional journey. Armed with a PRINCE2 Foundation certification, Mariia has actively participated in planning and implementing projects within SAP, demonstrating her keen interest and aptitude for project management.

Driven by a desire to excel in project management, Mariia has recently become a member of the Project Management Institute, aiming to enhance her skills, gain valuable experience through volunteering, and expand her professional network.
Beyond the realm of work, Mariia finds joy in reading, baking, hiking, and the rhythmic movements of bachata dancing ("embodying a holistic approach to life and well-being.")

You can learn more about Mariia by visiting her LinkedIn profile.