Samantha Bender: Steering atai's Operations with Passion and Precision
atai Life Sciences
Healing mental health disorders so that everyone, everywhere can live a more fulfilled life.
In our latest #facesofatai feature, we're honored to introduce Samantha Bender , our Associate Director of Program Management (US). With a rich history in behavioral neuroscience and a personal connection to the transformative potential of mental health treatments, Sam's role in Operations is both pivotal and deeply personal. Join us as we delve into her journey, her multifaceted role at atai, and how her personal and professional worlds beautifully converge.?
What inspired you to join atai??
My background is in behavioral neuroscience, and I have experience in early-stage drug discovery research for neurodegenerative diseases. While the oncology field shaped much of my professional journey as a scientist and a manager, the allure of the CNS field never waned. Presented with the chance, I embraced the opportunity to reengage in a domain I've always been passionate about. I remember sitting with my late grandfather, who dealt with PTSD himself, discussing the potential of MDMA as a treatment. I think he'd be very proud to see how far the field has come. Over the years, personal experiences have further fueled my desire to effect change in the areas atai has focused on.?
Can you describe your role at atai??
At atai, I serve as a Program Manager nestled within the operations team. I interact closely with every function within our organization. My primary objective is to ensure seamless and high-quality execution of our pipeline, from discovery to clinical programs. I get to wear many hats and collaborate with a diverse array of incredibly talented colleagues, weaving together cross-functional threads.?
How does the company culture at atai align with your personal values and aspirations??
From my background in behavioral neuroscience to my personal conversations about mental health treatments, I've always believed in the potential for breakthroughs in this field. atai's commitment to addressing mental health disorders is not just surface-level—it's deeply rooted in genuine care and forward-thinking innovation. This aligns perfectly with my aspiration to be a part of meaningful, impactful work. Moreover, the collaborative spirit at atai echoes my belief that collective efforts yield the most potent results. The ethos of 'doing it together' rather than just 'doing' aligns with my personal values of community and shared purpose. Being at atai feels like I'm not just fulfilling a role, but I'm also walking a path in harmony with my deepest convictions and aspirations.?
What sets atai apart from other organizations you have worked for, and why do you choose to stay??
I've been a part of many mission-driven organizations, but there's something distinct about atai. Here, everyone isn't just tied to the mission—they have a deep personal connection to it, fueling their drive to advance in the field. It's not just a place of do-ers but of 'do-it-together-ers.' We're a unique group united in our aim to heal mental health disorders so that everyone, everywhere, can live a more fulfilled life.?
What personal passion project are you working on outside of work??
I grew up in the Garden State, surrounded by farms, and this fostered a deep appreciation for food—from its inception in the soil to consumption. I'm immersing myself in the world of wine, working towards my WSET Level 2 certification. It's a fun blend of flavors and knowledge, encapsulating my love for food, wine, and growth. I'm also on a quest to perfect my hot sauce recipes, which are made with home-grown peppers???.
Love this!
Senior Director and Head of Biochemistry
1 年Glad to see you've landed well! We expect great things.
Co-CEO and Co-Founder at atai Life Sciences (NASDAQ:ATAI)
1 年So thrilled to have you part of our journey and mission, Samantha!! We are glad to have you driving mental health innovation and holding us accountable and keeping us on track in the program squads! ??
Senior Director, Strategic Development, Global Biopharma at Precision For Medicine
1 年Loving these insights atai Life Sciences and great to meet Samantha Bender and more of the team last week at a neuropsychiatric summit last week in Boston!
Senior Director, Head of Discovery Chemistry
1 年Lovely