In the world of pharmaceutical medicine, advancing innovation depends not only on groundbreaking science, but also on the expertise, dedication, and leadership of professionals shaping the future of medicines development. At GMDP Academy, one of the ways we celebrate and elevate these leaders is through the Global Fellowship in Medicines Development program.
Dr. Peter Stonier, pharmaceutical physician, Visiting Professor at King’s College London, and Co-Program Director of the GMDP Academy, explains the origins of the initiative:
“Well, the Global Fellowship came about because we wanted to recognize, we wanted to have within the context of medicine’s development and a professional body representing medicines development, a group of people who were considered to be senior and high achievers and people who were recognized as such amongst their peers within the world of medicines development.”
The program launched in 2020 with an impressive inaugural cohort of 120 Global Fellows, drawn from nominations across the globe. Building on that momentum, a second cohort was welcomed in May 2023, adding nearly 100 more leaders. Today, the Academy is proud to have a network of more than 200 Global Fellows representing excellence, vision, and commitment to advancing medicines development.
A highlight for the Academy came in July 2023, when a ceremony in London formally welcomed the second cohort of Fellows. The gathering brought together leaders from across the globe, offering a rare opportunity for connection, recognition, and reflection on the shared mission of improving patient outcomes through medicines development.
But as Dr. Stonier emphasizes, the Global Fellowship is not simply an honorary title. Fellows are expected to actively contribute to the advancement of the profession: championing pharmaceutical medicine, mentoring the next generation, supporting professional associations, and engaging with the Academy’s educational programs. This creates a dynamic and growing community of leaders who not only set the bar for professional excellence, but also strengthen the future of medicines development by sharing their knowledge and experience.
✨ Did you know? Many professionals beginning their journey in medicines development aspire to one day join the ranks of Global Fellows. The pathway often begins with building strong foundations—such as earning the Certification in Medicines Development (CMD)—and then advancing through years of practice, leadership, and contribution to the field.
The CMD program equips professionals with the knowledge and credentials to grow in their careers while connecting with a global network of peers. And for some, it may be the first step toward a career distinguished enough to be recognized at the level of Global Fellow.
🎥 Here’s Dr. Stonier talking about the Global Fellowship program: Watch the video
Are you ready to take the next step in your own professional journey? Learn more about the CMD program and discover where it could take you.
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