This spotlight story explores Nikola’s career growth, how his role impacts security at PSI, and insights into our positive and lean culture.
Describe your role within PSI, the responsibilities you handle on a day-to-day basis, and how your role impacts a clinical trial?
As an Information Security Specialist at PSI, my primary responsibility is to ensure the cybersecurity of PSI systems and data, including the protection of personal data. On a daily basis, I monitor, analyze, investigate, and respond to various security incidents and threats. This includes addressing suspicious logins, reported emails, and activities in our antivirus tool. Additionally, I prevent and mitigate potential security breaches by taking appropriate actions.
In addition to these daily tasks, I lead the implementation of cybersecurity projects such as cloud vulnerability solutions and enterprise password management. I am also responsible for administering and configuring security tools like the antivirus cloud solution and security awareness platform. Furthermore, I install and configure various operating systems and tools on virtual machines and servers, document changes for projects, create workflows and policies, and provide support to users.
I collaborate closely with our internal IT and Legal departments, as well as our Data Protection group. I contribute by reviewing cybersecurity-related provisions in contracts, investigating cybersecurity incidents, including those that expose personal data, and by analyzing technological aspects of such security incidents, which is important to assess the impact of data privacy. Additionally, I engage with vendors and other departments to create and administer tools, establish processes, and ensure compliance.
Overall, my role significantly impacts clinical trials by safeguarding PSI’s systems and data, maintaining compliance with regulations, and mitigating security risks, ultimately contributing to the success and integrity of our trials.
How did you become interested in clinical research, and what motivated you to pursue a career in this field?
My interest in clinical research stems from my passion for cybersecurity. I discovered that cybersecurity within the clinical trial domain faces unique challenges. CROs naturally handle large volumes of sensitive data, which makes them desirable targets for hackers and intruders. Recognizing the critical importance of securing this data, I was motivated to pursue a cybersecurity career focusing on the clinical research field.
I have always been drawn to challenges, and the complex cybersecurity landscape within CROs presented an intriguing opportunity to apply my skills and knowledge. By delving into the world of clinical research, I contribute to enhancing the security of these organizations and continuously learn and develop my cybersecurity skills further. This dual motivation—to protect sensitive data and to expand my expertise—propelled me toward a career in clinical research cybersecurity.
How have you grown in your career at PSI?
When I joined PSI, I had limited experience in the Information Security role, which meant I needed to put in a significant effort to quickly learn and adapt. The Information Security Team at PSI is relatively new and composed of young professionals. What I appreciate about this environment is that I joined early on, allowing me to contribute to building our security infrastructure from the ground up.
This experience regularly pushed me out of my comfort zone, giving me the opportunity to lead numerous cybersecurity projects and participate in other initiatives. Through these experiences, my confidence and cybersecurity skills have grown significantly. I am grateful to PSI for providing me with the chance to work alongside an exceptional team led by a great manager. Additionally, being part of the vibrant Belgrade office surrounded by talented colleagues has been invaluable to my growth. I admire and learn from my team members and office colleagues daily, and their contributions have played a significant role in my development and progress at PSI.
What aspects of PSI’s culture do you appreciate the most, and how do they contribute to your overall job satisfaction?
I’ve been consistently impressed by PSI’s lean structure, which encourages open communication and accessibility across all levels. In my role, collaborating with various individuals and teams to address issues, complete tasks, and handle cybersecurity incidents is often essential. The ease of contacting individuals in higher positions without feeling pressured has made my job more efficient and effective. This culture of accessibility fosters a collaborative environment where teamwork thrives, ultimately enhancing job satisfaction and productivity.
What advice would you give to someone looking to join our team?
My advice to anyone considering joining our team is simple: try it! I have never been part of a more exceptional collective than the one we have here. Whether interacting with colleagues in person or virtually, you’ll find yourself surrounded by outstanding individuals. The environment is conducive to constant learning and self-improvement, making the journey enjoyable and rewarding.
Interested in taking the next step in your career? Discover what makes PSI so unique and explore our open job opportunities.
