Why did you choose a scientific career?
The sciences were my only real interest at school, and so when I obtained good grades in these subjects, going on to university to study them seemed to be the next logical step. As an undergraduate I worked on mammalian systems, but after completing my MSc, I had the opportunity work at SCRI and gain experience working with plants.
Did you always know that you wanted to be a scientist or did you become a scientist ‘by accident'?
I always wanted to work in science.
What factors stimulated your career (colleagues, mentor, own motivation, family)?
I am generally self-motivated but my boss, Prof. Dr Howard Davies, is extremely motivational and supportive.
How did you obtain your current job position (factors that have been a barrier/stimulated your scientific career)?
I have been at SCRI for 10 years – I came to gain work experience with plants and ended up doing a PhD and becoming a permanent member of the SCRI staff. I enjoy my work, and the salary and working conditions are good. A bonus is that I have made many invaluable friendships here. With such job satisfaction, I have felt no desire to look elsewhere for employment.
What ambitions do you have regarding your career?
I would like to gain promotion to the next level in my career within the next 3 years. I hope to extend my managerial skills and play a role in grant income for the institute.
Have you ever had the feeling that you had to choose between personal life and work?
My partner is also a research scientist at SCRI so we tend not to work similar hours. However, being able to take vacations at the same time every year can be nearly impossible.
Do you have any specific advice to other women that pursue a scientific career?
Science does tend to be male dominated, but in my experience this is down to personal choice rather than men being favoured. Simply know what you want and be prepared to work hard for it.
Do you have any suggestions or comments?
An opportunity to be involved in EU grants such as SAFE FOODS has really broadened my horizons & allowed me to benchmark what I do against others. I have met wonderful people in a stimulating environment and enjoy doing something which I hope will benefit Scotland, the UK and Europe. Having the opportunity to present at such meetings has been a great experience.