Can you tell us about your current role and how your experience at Fox Chase helped shape your career?
"As a translational scientist focused on advancing personalized therapies and precision medicine in healthcare, I lead the development and implementation of biomarker strategies for drug development within the oncology and immunology therapeutic areas. During my postdoc at Fox Chase, I gained extensive experience in cancer biology and T lymphocyte development, which have been crucial for my current role. The mentorship I received from Dr. David Wiest was invaluable, as it helped me develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills in these areas. Additionally, the collaborative environment at Fox Chase also enhanced the building of my professional networking skills."
What were some of the most valuable lessons you learned during your time as a trainee?
"Conducting research can be quite challenging; however, maintaining persistence and focus on objectives is essential for making progress towards our goals. Additionally, I have learned the significance of effective communication, both in writing and presenting my research. This skill has been crucial for sharing my findings and ideas with not only my peers but also the senior management within the company. Lastly, collaboration has been vital; working alongside colleagues from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise often results in innovative ideas and solutions as well as new perspectives."
Looking back, what advice would you give to current trainees who are navigating their research and careers?
"My recommendation for current trainees is to engage in active networking and seek mentorship opportunities. Establishing connections with experienced researchers, including those outside of academia, can offer valuable guidance and unlock new opportunities. Additionally, do not hesitate to pursue interdisciplinary research, as it has the potential to lead to interesting discoveries and enhance your skill set. It is important to set well-defined and achievable goals for both your research and career while remaining flexible and open to new opportunities."
What challenges did you face transitioning from a trainee to your current position, and how did you overcome them?
"One significant challenge was adjusting to the pace and priorities related to deliverables. My current position frequently requires a focus on practical applications and achieving results, with tight deadlines and structured project management. To address this, I sought advice from mentors and colleagues who had successfully navigated similar transitions. Adapting to the new environment required understanding the specific expectations and workflows of the processes. Additionally, I took courses in project management and leadership to acquire the necessary skills for navigating in the new role. Industry roles may also require competencies not typically highlighted in academia, such as regulatory compliance and business acumen. Investing time in professional development, attending workshops, and reading industry-specific literature can help build these skills."
How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance in academia and research?
"Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for achieving long-term success and well-being. I establish clear boundaries between work and personal time, ensuring that I allocate periods for hobbies and relaxation by taking vacation time. Prioritizing tasks and delegating responsibilities when appropriate help me to manage my workload efficiently. Finally, I seek support from colleagues, friends, and family to remain confident and motivated."
