From chemistry to QA: Everything Nasr-Eddine learned outside the lab
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Testimonial
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Pharmaceutical Affairs
In Life Sciences, adaptability and a drive to learn are essential. QA consultant at Strand, Nasr-Eddine, exemplifies this spirit. He built a career by embracing change, solving problems, and evolving with the industry. Learn more about his story below.
A career that evolved naturally
With a degree in chemistry from the University of Mons, Nasr-Eddine began in laboratories. “Initially, I was drawn to lab work, it felt like the obvious path,” he says. But a first role in the Pharma industry led him toward Quality Assurance. “QA wasn’t the plan, but it’s where I found real motivation.”
Today, with six years in pharma, including five as a Strand consultant, he works as a QA Officer, focusing on operational excellence. "I work on backlog reduction, deviation management, and process improvement. It’s far from the lab, but I enjoy the constant learning and rapid pace.”
What keeps it exciting? The variety. “Every project has been different, but I notice that problem-solving is what drives me on the daily."
Nasr-Eddine values having a broad scientific background. “Chemistry taught me discipline, time management, and how to analyze data; skills that transfer well into QA.” A multidisciplinary mindset, he says, is a real asset.
Skills that make a difference
Althgough QA is really procedural, having people skills proves to be relevant as well. “You deal with many departments, so communication is key,” he says. “Being a fast learner is essential too. You have to adjust quickly, be proactive, and make confident decisions in a fast-moving environment.”
Nasr-Eddine sees Lean practices as becoming essential for QA professionals. “There’s growing demand for Green Belt and Yellow Belt certifications,” he notes. "At Strand, they also promote certifications like Lean Management and Six Sigma which are increasingly sought-after skills in QA. They help structure our problem-solving approach and improve operational efficiency.”
Additionally, he believes AI will play a growing role in supporting QA. “It’ll help with investigations, documentation, and training juniors. It won’t replace us, but it’ll definitely boost efficiency and free up time for higher-value tasks.”
Advice for future QA professionals
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Be curious and apply widely. “Coming out of university, I didn’t know all the career paths. Even if you feel underqualified, I woud suggest to apply anyway. You’ll rapidly learn what skills you need to improve and how you can stand out."
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Language skills are also widely important. “English is a must in international pharma. But French is essential on the shop floor, where many operators need clear, localized instructions. Being bilingual opens more doors.”
After five years, what keeps Nasr-Eddine in consulting?
"From the lab bench to QA strategy, the learning never stops. Each mission brings new challenges and teaches me something different. Consulting offers variety, growth, and purpose. You’re not stuck in one routine. You grow faster, gain more experience, and constantly sharpen your skills.”
With the support of Strand and a passion for problem-solving, Nasr-Eddine is helping shape the future of pharmaceutical quality, one project at a time.