Can you describe your current role and what your typical day looks like?
I’m the Chief Operations Officer of Enzyme by Design and a Grant Principal Investigator (PI). I wear many hats, including planning the science and also in strategizing and executing business functions. There is no such thing as a typical day! The ability to be flexible, move quickly and re-prioritize is a must amidst the chaos.
What is your educational background and experience, and how did it prepare you for this career?
I have BS, MSc, and PhD degrees in biochemistry and molecular biology which prepared me for the science part of my job. Preparation for the other parts came from working several years at a lab, managing a startup, and participating in mentoring programs and thinking about science as a business.
What is your proudest achievement in your career so far?
I’ve been so grateful to receive awards for 40 Under 40 Translational Scientist in Chicago, AWIS Innovator of the Year and CRAIN’s Notable Women in STEM. I’m hoping my greatest achievement is yet to come when the much safer drugs we’re developing reach actual patients who need them.
This year’s theme is “From Dreams to Reality: Dynamic Women in STEM.” Is this your dream career? If not, how do you plan to turn your dreams into reality?
When I first started out on my scientific journey, I didn’t even know this career path really existed. Not until I actually started falling into it and then I realized how much I love it. I get to work on impactful science and I am so fortunate to work with an absolutely amazing team of people. And maybe my future career will have a fork in the road that I come to love as well.
How do you think your work impacts the broader community or the world?
We’re inventing novel enzyme drugs that exploit a metabolic weakness to kill specific kinds of tumor cells. This has potential to improve quality of life for patients given the highly toxic nature of current drugs in this class and to extend survival for these patients.
What are some strategies you use to maintain resilience and persistence in the face of obstacles?
I try to remember that I’m not alone and to reach out for advice from those more experienced than myself in that area and to my inner network for emotional support and encouragement. I also make an effort to do things that bring me joy. It keeps me balanced and present with my emotions.
What are the emerging trends or technologies in your field that excite you?
Personalized medicine, AI
What advice do you have for other women or nonbinary individuals considering this field?
Startup life involves risk, tolerance, and understanding oneself. For me, it involves a lot of chaos and constant learning. My experience will be different than others so I’d recommend talking to others (collecting data) to get a more cohesive view of the rewards and the challenges.