Pros
Like many others, I read GlassDoor reviews and they weighed heavily on my mind as I walked into the interview room. Like others, I was concerned. So, as someone just like you, reading these reviews, I thought it would be helpful to future interviewees to detail my experience. Despite the negative reviews, I took a leap of faith and accepted the job offer. Coming from a previous job with an immensely toxic culture, this was not an easy decision. Every day I looked out for red flags or signs that people were being fake and effecting a happy face, but instead I just saw hard-working colleagues working toward a common goal, each one waving or smiling at me and each other as we walk past. Of course, each department is different, and no doubt you will find disgruntled workers, but overall the atmosphere here is shockingly friendly. The culture, although not defined as well as some other companies, is one of camaraderie. The work is intellectually stimulating in the Research department, which is reflected in the minimally low turnover rate of scientists here. This does not mean there are not areas that FibroGen needs to improve on, but it does mean that you should not read a review here and expect your experience to be the same, good or bad. Follow your gut feeling and don't let negative reviews from angry persons cloud your judgment without giving it a chance. Lastly, here's what those negative reviews don't tell you - they all come from one department, which currently has an immense workload due to the nature of where FibroGen's business is right now. But, do not for one second think that that means everyone in that department is miserable; it is demonstrably false. Other pros: - Independence is highly available and freely given to those who desire it and are capable of managing their own work - Engaging product pipeline (IPF, preclinical cancer therapeutics, bioartifical cornea) - Atmosphere of collaboration - Gorgeous building and location (right on the bay) - In-building cafeteria (but... the food could be better) - Yearly cruise during Fleet Week to see the Blue Angels
Cons
- Complacency; some management have a myopic view of how things should be done and are resistant to change - Unyielding budget; most of FibroGen's money is tied up in clinical trials and this means budget allocation only trickles down to other departments