British Science Week is a celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths that takes place each year from 8 to 17 March.
Inspired by this year’s theme ‘Smashing Stereotypes’, we are celebrating the diverse range of careers in the IOI from drug discovery in labs to data management and research communications. The IOI is home to scientists from across the globe who each make their own unique contribution to our goal of combatting antimicrobial resistance.
We caught up with some of our team to learn about their career journeys so far, who inspires them, and what advice they would give to their younger selves.
What made you interested in a career in science?
Charlotte, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Biology: I've always been fascinated with how things work and how they are put together. I wanted to work in science because I have a love of learning and science requires you to always be learning. I yearn to gain new ideas and learn new techniques; it keeps my mind active.
Edward, Senior Data Manager: I have always found science stimulating and have a desire for problem-solving. I also had influence from mentors; my mother who is a STEM teacher, my dad who was a mathematician, and my academic supervisors who have kept me going and motivated.
Amy, Research Communications Officer: I always loved Biology but knew a research career wasn't for me. During university I took part in a summer-long research competition called iGEM. My role was to engage with to patient groups and industry experts to create an impact report for our project. This really opened my eyes to the potential careers in translating research and led me on the path to science communications.
What challenges have you overcome in your career?
Charlotte, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Biology: I had a car accident in the last year of my PhD and this meant I needed an 18-month extension and I had to take a leave of absence. This was very challenging but also taught me a lot about pacing myself. It's important to remember your mind needs rest as much as your body does- as scientists our minds are essential!
Edward, Senior Data Manager: Job instability due to contract-based opportunities has been a challenge, especially in my early career days. This had a negative impact on my overall well-being and was the biggest hurdle to overcome.
Maria, PhD Student: I'm still working on not putting pressure on myself and dealing with impostor syndrome.
What do you wish more people knew about your job?
Maria, PhD Student: That a normal day in the lab might not be what you imagine- it also involves meetings, presentations or laptop work. And in terms of antimicrobial resistance - how quickly bacteria evolve and become resistant to antibiotic drugs.
Amy, Research Communications Officer: How varied it is – one day you could be writing a news story covering some new research, and the next running a stakeholder event or creating social media content!
Charlotte, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Biology: Being a scientist and being part of a lab team is fun, we help each other out, support one another, and learn together every day. Science can be very frustrating and requires a lot of trial and error, which is why having a strong team around you is so important.
Who inspires you and why?
Christine, PhD Student: My former chemistry teacher in high school - she encouraged her students to explore chemistry in many different ways, but also to think critically about science. And most importantly, her belief in me as a student made me feel more confident about pursuing a career in chemistry.
Amy, Research Communications Officer: I have a couple - Maryn McKenna, who is an amazing science journalist and author who writes compelling stories about global health issues, and Jade Passey, my first mentor who I really look up to for sharing her passion and expertise for all things science comms.
Lewis, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Chemistry: I inspire myself. I like to often look back and reflect on who I was, and then I see who I have become, and it gives me confidence to keep giving more and pushing myself.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Christine, PhD Student: It doesn't matter what other people might think about your choice of career if you know it will be the right one for you.
Amy, Research Communications Officer: It's okay not to know what you want to do! Things happen for a reason and every step you take in your career leads you to where you're meant to be.
Charlotte, Postdoctoral Research Associate, Biology: Don't give up or be too hard on yourself when you fail, but also take time to slow down sometimes and listen to your body.
Edward, Senior Data Manager: Somehow, at the end of the day, it will always work out.