“I’ve gained truly valuable skills that have made me a better leader, including writing and communication, navigating complex challenges, and creating strong teams… .”
Lives in: Oxford, United Kingdom
Major: Chemistry
What work looks like: “My overarching role is to ensure that my biotech company’s scientific goals are aligned with our commercial objectives. This entails directing the chemistry team to innovate and develop our technologies, managing customer projects, and collaborating with my fellow leaders on company strategy.”
What she loves about it: “I love applying my scientific background to something that has tangible, real-world application. For example, we are currently working with manufacturers to develop more sustainable production routes to common medicines like acetaminophen. I also love that my job has introduced me to new ways of thinking about chemistry and taught me a lot about the commercial side of the sector. I’ve learned on the fly about what it takes to run a start-up company, which, in addition to chemistry, includes marketing strategies, building relationships with customers, intellectual property, and managing people and teams.”
What she gained from a liberal arts education: “I’ve gained truly valuable skills that have made me a better leader, including writing and communication (such as translating difficult concepts into something understandable), navigating complex challenges, and creating strong teams out of individuals with varying interests and backgrounds. The steps I’ve taken in my career have all hinged on my scientific background, strong communication, effective project management, and an openness to collaborating and sharing knowledge with my colleagues. Beyond my career path, I feel that my well-rounded education has been hugely influential because it helped me form my worldview and solidify my personal values.”