What’s the most important leadership lesson you’ve learned?

Leadership styles should be tailored for the mentees and can evolve over time.

How was AWIS helped you professionally and/or personally?

AWIS has provided me with a platform to engage with fellow STEM enthusiasts and build leadership skills by organizing events centered around supporting early career scientists. Connecting with professionals in our networking sessions broadened my horizons on not just STEM careers, but also gave me a community where I belong. Personally, one of the greatest lessons I have learnt is “To forgive oneself and set realistic expectations.”

What is your favorite word?

Ikigai

How do you define it?

Finding your purpose

What are you currently reading or listening to?

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain

What do you consider the best professional or personal advice you’ve ever received?

Get comfortable with the uncomfortable.

As a scientific tinkerer, Ambily Abraham, PhD has always found passion in exploring the unknown and connecting with fellow enthusiasts. Her first research experience was at Indian Institute of Science, where she developed a virus-based antibody delivery system and that’s where her love for scientific research began. After graduation, she did her Postdoc at UMass Chan Medical School, working on a vaccine delivery platform. She was introduced to the AWIS community during her postdoc and has served as Communication Director, Vice President and Mentorship Chair of AWIS Central Massachusetts. During the pandemic, she transitioned into a Senior Scientist II role at AbbVie, working with cross functional teams on antibody discovery.

“I have had great mentors (inside and outside lab) along the journey that helped me become a better person. Mentoring has been my way of giving back to community and I have been fortunate to help through AWIS and Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OSWD), which is a UNESCO run program. Growing up, I have never dreamt of being a scientist and this journey has definitely been one of my ‘Happy accidents’.”