PhD Immunology, King’s College London, 2009
| Grants Manager | |
|---|---|
| Nium | |
Year entered into a non-academic position: 2020
My research training set me up to…break down complex ideas and processes into a deliverable research programme. This includes defining clear objectives, breaking those into key deliverables, developing a detailed plan, and monitoring and adjusting that plan to help the team achieve its goals. As a scientist myself, I understand that the path to cutting-edge innovation is never straightforward. Bridging the gap between the technical team and senior leadership/funders/investors through developing strong relationships and clear communication is an essential part of the role.
Left academia after:After 10 years of postdoctoral research
What’s your background?
After my PhD, I spent approximately 10 years researching the molecular immunology of type 1 diabetes. A career highlight was identifying one of the proteins in the pancreas that the immune system of patients with type 1 diabetes mistakenly recognises as foreign, leading to the destruction of their insulin-producing cells.
Why did you move away from academia?
After many happy years in the lab, I realised that my skills were better suited to people and project management. Like many, I also found the constant job insecurity in academia difficult, especially as a mum of two.
Is there anything you miss about academia?
The breakthrough moments in the lab!
How did you get this job? Did you face any challenges when considering a move away from academia or applying for the role?
Before I transitioned into my current role, I spent a few years in grant management and delivery at UKRI. As well as equipping me with an excellent grounding in programme management, I had the opportunity to get involved in a range of strategic projects. This gave me valuable insights into the UK’s research and innovation landscape.
What motivated you to/why did you choose the sector you transitioned into?
Having worked in large (and bureaucratic) organisations almost all my career, the idea of joining a dynamic startup company with a clear purpose was appealing. I felt that I could make an individual impact in support of the collective mission (to reduce carbon emissions from chemical processes), which, importantly, also aligned with my personal values.
Did you think you had the skills required for your current position before you started? Were you right?
I knew it would be a steep learning curve changing both sector and scientific discipline at the same time – and I wasn’t wrong! However, I was able to apply my broader skill set in programme management, stakeholder engagement and grant writing quickly.
I’m still learning every day, but that’s partly what drives me.
Can you describe a typical week in your job?
My job varies day to day and week to week, but typically I’ll divide my time across researching and applying for relevant funding opportunities, establishing new collaborations, managing active projects, and setting up processes to support the company as it grows.
What is the workplace culture like? Please include comments on work-life balance, flexibility, remote working?
There are nerve wracking moments working in a startup environment with the ever-present worry about how much ‘runway’ the company has left before more investment is needed. But this also means I’m working with highly driven individuals who are all pulling together to achieve a common goal. Our founders have placed a lot of emphasis on creating and nurturing a strong culture of trust, transparency, and teamwork. There is also plenty of flexibility, as long as you’re delivering high quality outcomes.
Do you have any advice for current graduate students and postdocs considering a career outside of academia?
Once you start looking, you’ll be amazed by the huge variety of opportunities outside of academia where your skills as an academic researcher will be valued. The key thing is to work out what you love and what you’re good at. It might take some trial and error to find your new path, but that’s OK.
