This podcast episode explores the role of a CFO in the pharmaceutical industry, with a focus on Moderna. It highlights the unique challenges faced by CFOs in the industry due to the lengthy and risky nature of drug development. The episode discusses the allocation of resources for drug development, the strategic considerations involved in prioritizing R&D funding, and the various avenues for funding in the biotech sector. It also emphasizes the importance of stock market performance and investor sentiment, as well as the need to balance enthusiasm for new technologies with realistic expectations. The episode concludes by discussing the impact of Operation Warp Speed on the industry and the parallels between the pharmaceutical and aviation industries. Overall, it provides insights into the complexities and decision-making processes involved in the CFO role in the pharmaceutical industry.