Why did you choose to embark on a career in science?
Science has always interested and excited me. I am passionate about the contribution science can make to improving health and wellbeing in addition to helping protect the planet.
When/how did you start your career?
Following completion of a BSc in Applied Chemistry at Cardiff University and a PhD in Physical Chemistry at Swansea University, I joined my first Biotech company as a New Product Development Officer nearly 25 years ago. I
am very proud to have been at Biological Preparations since the company launch in October 2009 where I have a wide functioning role supporting multiple company functions including technical, operations and sales.
What drives you to work so passionately?
I love what I do! No two days are ever the same and I am constantly faced with new challenges. What drives me is when I can see a positive impact from the products and biotech solutions we deliver. I aim to be a strong team player who is valued by my team and this keeps me motivated to reach the next team goal.
The products we deliver are innovative, high quality and at the forefront of technological breakthroughs. Our ethos is to use simple ingredients that perform well. Safeguarding human health and protecting the planet very much aligns with my own values and drive me to deliver the best solutions possible.
What are the biggest challenges you've faced in your career and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I have faced for most of my career has been a lack of education around both “Bio” & “Eco” technology in general and market inertia to support a change in the way we clean!
Bio and Eco products have traditionally had a reputation for failure as performance is often considered to be compromised. Adding potentially weaker technologies requires a synergistic improvement to attain the performance desired which is only achieved following extensive research, testing and understanding of the technologies involved.
Working at Biological Preparations has provided me with great opportunities to be innovative and deliver forward thinking, efficacious, state of the art solutions.
What are your proudest achievements?
I have played a fundamental role in developing the BioHygiene range of cleaning products and am very proud of our efficacious, highly concentrated, minimal human and aquatic toxicity range of new generation Biotech and Ecotech cleaning solutions.
What is the best thing about working in science?
I have focused my career on working for organisations that use science and technology to really make a difference. Being aware of the challenges that our technology can overcome in a positive and sustainable way has to be one of the best things about my job.
Who is the biggest influencer that has inspired you in your career?
I think it would have to be Marie Curie. I can clearly remember when I first learnt about her in school and the passion it ignited in me to study science. Despite her success, Marie face great opposition from male scientists and died from leukaemia, caused by exposure to high-energy radiation from her research. Marie was a pioneer for women in science and a true inspiration to me and influencer in my chosen career.
What advice would you give to young people starting in their career in science?
Do your Research! There are so many different branches of science on offer it is really important that you read around different subject areas and identify where your true interests lie. Believe in yourself and be clear and open about what you want and how you need to get there. If possible try and get some work or shadowing experience and thoroughly research all opportunities available.
