Hello, I’m
Gabriëlle

At Catalyze, I help turn groundbreaking science into funded innovations that change lives.”

Hello, I’m
Gabriëlle

At Catalyze, I help turn groundbreaking science into funded innovations that change lives.”

Gabriëlle Aisa Bonoko

Innovation Consultant Life Sciences and Health

How did you end up at Catalyze and what do you do in your daily work?

I joined Catalyze shortly after graduating with a master’s degree in biomedical sciences from Leiden University. During my studies, I realized quite early on that I did not see my long-term role within academia, but rather in industry, where I felt I could add more value aligned with my strengths. 

To explore alternative paths, I completed an internship at a diagnostics start-up. During this internship I became familiar with the life sciences funding landscape and realized how crucial non-dilutive funding is in propelling innovations to market and ultimately improving patients’ lives, which led me to Catalyze.

Can you describe how you make an impact on your clients in your daily work?

In my daily work, I support clients in shaping and structuring their project ideas, so they align strategically with funding programmes such as Eurostars and the EIC (e.g., EIC Transition). My role goes beyond writing a proposal— I help translate complex scientific and technical concepts into a clear, compelling funding narrative that resonates with evaluators.

I guide clients throughout the entire application process, from identifying suitable consortium partners to final submission. Along the way, I challenge their assumptions, ask critical questions about the novelty and breakthrough character of their innovation, and push them to clearly articulate the unmet need they address and the real-world impact they aim to create.

Can you describe what you like about your team, your colleagues, the collaboration within Catalyze, and the company culture?
What I appreciate most about Catalyze is its young, ambitious, and driven culture, which creates an energetic and motivating work environment. The team’s diverse academic and professional backgrounds make collaboration dynamic and intellectually stimulating. Within my team, I feel continuously inspired and challenged by colleagues who support each other’s growth, combining shared ambition with a strong sense of openness and teamwork.

What would you like to say to your future colleagues?
I wish you all the best as you start your journey at Catalyze. You can expect a steep learning curve, plenty of opportunities for personal and professional growth, and the chance to work with a diverse range of clients developing truly impactful innovations. It’s a dynamic environment where you’ll be continuously challenged, but also supported, as you grow into your role.

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