Name
Kat Khosrowyar
Graduation year
2022
Degree
Master of Global Affairs
Current employer
American Chemistry Council
Job title
Associate Director, Regulatory and Scientific Affairs
What initially brought you to Rice and the MGA program?
What initially brought me to Rice University and the professional master’s program in Global Affairs was a combination of its prestigious reputation, the program's unique interdisciplinary approach, and the opportunity to engage with a diverse and accomplished faculty and student body.
Rice's commitment to fostering global leaders aligns perfectly with my career aspirations and my desire to drive positive change on an international scale. Additionally, the program's emphasis on practical experience and policy analysis provides the ideal environment for me to further develop my skills and make meaningful contributions to the field of regulatory affairs.
How did your experience in the MGA program prepare you for a professional career?
The program equipped me with a robust skill set that is crucial for a professional career. I learned how to effectively research and pull relevant information from various sources, ensuring that my work is always well-informed and credible. The program emphasized the importance of having a global perspective, which has allowed me to approach issues with a more comprehensive understanding of international dynamics.
Additionally, I developed strong writing skills, particularly in drafting concise memos that highlight the most important information efficiently. This ability to communicate clearly and succinctly is invaluable in any professional setting. The program also trained me to analyze both qualitative and quantitative data, enabling me to provide thorough and insightful analyses. These skills collectively have prepared me to navigate and excel in the complexities of a professional career.
In what ways do you feel Rice’s location in Houston, Texas, enhanced your experience as a professional master’s student?
Houston's status as an international city, with numerous global companies, provided a dynamic environment for learning and networking. With my background in energy, Houston offered an ideal platform for engaging in meaningful discussions with peers and professionals who were well-versed in the industry, ensuring that conversations were always relevant and insightful.
Houston is home to several consulates, which enriched my understanding of international relations and diplomacy. This unique setting allowed me to gain firsthand exposure to global perspectives and practices, further enhancing my education and preparing me for a career in regulatory affairs.
What are your primary responsibilities in your current role?
As the Associate Director of Regulatory and Scientific Affairs at the American Chemistry Council, my primary responsibilities involve overseeing and coordinating regulatory and scientific initiatives to support the chemical industry's compliance and advocacy efforts. This includes: Regulatory Strategy Development: I propose and develop strategies for regulatory commenting efforts and ensure alignment with both U.S. and international regulatory requirements; Regulatory Submissions and Compliance: I manage the preparation and coordination of accurate and timely submissions to various regulatory programs; Liaison and Communication: I act as the liaison between the American Chemistry Council and regulatory agencies, facilitating communication and ensuring our responses and submissions meet regulatory expectations; Scientific Analysis and Support: I perform and manage critical analyses of clinical, preclinical, and manufacturing data, providing scientific interpretations and conclusions to support regulatory decisions; and Policy Monitoring and Training: I continually monitor newly published guidelines and provide training on regulatory topics to internal teams to maintain compliance with evolving regulations.
Overall, my role is pivotal in ensuring that the chemical industry's regulatory and scientific affairs are managed efficiently and effectively, supporting the industry's commitment to safety, compliance, and innovation.
What are some ways you incorporate what you learned in your professional master’s program into your career?
One of the key skills I honed at Rice was how to efficiently research and pull relevant information from various sources. This has been invaluable in my current role, where staying up-to-date with regulatory changes and scientific developments is crucial. I utilize these skills to ensure that our regulatory strategies are informed by the most current data and best practices.
The master’s program emphasized a global perspective, which has enhanced my ability to navigate the international regulatory landscape. Understanding different regulatory environments and cultural contexts helps me to better advocate for the chemical industry on a global scale.
I learned how to write and draft concise memos that distill complex information into clear, actionable insights. This skill is essential when communicating regulatory updates and strategic recommendations to our members and stakeholders.
My coursework at Rice included rigorous training in both qualitative and quantitative analysis. This ability to analyze and interpret diverse sets of data enables me to provide comprehensive and well-founded regulatory guidance.
What are some of your long-term goals for your career?
My long-term career goals include starting a green tech energy company based in the Middle East. This ambition is driven by several factors:
- Sustainability and Innovation: I aim to contribute to the global effort in combating climate change by developing innovative green technologies. Establishing a company focused on renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and advanced battery storage systems can significantly reduce the region's carbon footprint.
- Economic Development: The Middle East, with its abundant sunlight and wind resources, holds immense potential for renewable energy. By tapping into these resources, I envision fostering economic growth, creating jobs, and promoting energy independence in the region.
- Policy and Advocacy: Leveraging my experience and expertise from the American Chemistry Council, I plan to advocate for policies that support renewable energy adoption and sustainable practices. This includes working with governments and international organizations to create a favorable regulatory environment for green tech initiatives.
- Educational Outreach: I am passionate about education and awareness. Part of my vision is to collaborate with local universities and research institutions to promote innovation and train the next generation of engineers and scientists in renewable energy technologies.
- Global Impact: Ultimately, my goal is to position the Middle East as a leader in green technology, setting an example for other regions and contributing to global sustainability goals.
This long-term vision aligns with my background in regulatory and scientific affairs and my educational experiences at Rice, where I developed a global perspective and the necessary skills to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and drive impactful change.
What are three words you would use to describe your experience as a professional master’s student at Rice?
Transformative, rigorous, and strategic.