Dr. GPCR Podcast
Strategic Partners
GPCR Pharmacology, Career Twists & Serendipity with Sokhom Pin
1. From the Bench to the Boardroom
Sokhom Pin’s story begins not with prestige or privilege but with grit and commitment. From his early work as a technician at Johns Hopkins Hospital to leading biology at Servo Therapeutics, Sokhom’s journey is rooted in practicality and purpose. He shares:
"All my industry experience has been GPCR-focused."
Starting at DuPont, then BMS, Novartis, and eventually founding in vitro pharmacology departments, Sokhom always stayed anchored to G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs).
2. Family First, Always
The decision to shift from academia to industry wasn’t driven by disillusionment—it was about responsibility.
“I had two kids and realized I just couldn’t support a family on a technician’s salary.”
This pragmatic decision led him to high-throughput screening at DuPont, proving that scientific ambition doesn’t have to mean sacrificing personal commitments.
3. Falling in Love with GPCRs
GPCR pharmacology captured his scientific curiosity. Sokhom recalls how binding assays at BMS introduced him to the depth and complexity of receptor pharmacology:
“It’s not just about IC50s. There’s allosterism, receptor desensitization… it opened a whole new world.”
This moment became pivotal—transforming technical proficiency into passion.
4. Designing a Non-Traditional PhD
While working full-time, Sokhom architected a one-of-a-kind PhD program between BMS and UConn.
“I had to find a way. I wanted a PhD, but I couldn’t quit my job.”
Through strategic coordination, he executed a PhD entirely in the industry setting—efficient, targeted, and rooted in real-world projects like CGRP receptor antagonists.
5. From Scientist to Leader
At Alkermes, Sokhom took his first leadership role and finally experienced the power of empowerment.
“That’s the moment that changed my entire career. I was trusted to build a team from scratch.”
He focused on culture—ensuring passion and purpose drove performance.
6. The Power of the Right Culture
Whether it was Alkermes or Cerevel, Sokhom emphasized that team culture trumps individual genius.
“It doesn’t matter how brilliant someone is—if they’re toxic, I don’t want them on the team.”
He built what others called the “happiest team at Alkermes,” showing that joy and scientific rigor aren’t mutually exclusive.
7. Network or Miss Out
One powerful shift came when Sokhom leaned into networking—despite being an introvert.
“I changed from being an extreme introvert to someone who thrives on connection.”
His story underscores how something as simple as forwarding a resume or reaching out for coffee can change careers.
8. The Lifecycle of GPCR Popularity
Sokhom has witnessed the waves of scientific fashion:
“There was a time GPCRs were hot, then ignored. Now they’re back.”
His unwavering dedication through these cycles became an asset—many others shifted focus, leaving a smaller, highly skilled group of GPCR specialists.
9. Lessons from Molecules and Mentors
He draws inspiration from scientific complexity and colleagues like Arthur Christopoulos and Terry Kenakin.
“What fascinates me is how the same molecule behaves differently depending on one amino acid.”
He blends classical receptor pharmacology with biosensor technology, always adapting to new tools and insights.
10. Don’t Let Weakness Define You
The episode ends with a deeply human reflection:
“Don’t let your weakness define your life. Overcome it. I used to sweat thinking about presentations. Now I love them.”
Whether it’s networking, leadership, or technical mastery, Sokhom’s message is clear: keep evolving, and don’t settle.
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Key Takeaway
Sokhom Pin's journey is a masterclass in scientific persistence, non-traditional success, and values-driven leadership. For any scientist navigating career uncertainty—his story is both roadmap and inspiration.
Keyword Cloud
GPCR research community, Dr. GPCR ecosystem, GPCR scientist network, GPCR drug discovery, GPCR training program, GPCR online course, G protein-coupled receptors, GPCR podcast, GPCR webinar series, GPCR data platform
Summary created by AI
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About Sokhom Pin
Sokhom Pin is a receptor pharmacologist with over 20 years of drug discovery research in the pharmaceutical industry, where he works mainly on GPCRs as therapeutic targets. He is passionate about mechanistic profiling of therapeutic molecules as well as drug discovery in general. Outside of science Sokhom enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, fishing, and biking.
Sokhom Pin on the web
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