Coined by UNESCO, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science is a day that aims to promote equal access and participation in science for women and girls.

At BioAscent, we celebrate our diverse and experienced team from a range of different backgrounds. To mark this day, we have asked a few of our female scientists to share what inspired them to pursue a career in science, and their most memorable moment in their careers.

Sylviane Boucharens, Chief Operating Officer and Co-founder:

“As far back in time as I can remember I have always been interested and fascinated by life sciences and it was obvious to me at a young age that one day I would become a scientist. As a Drug Discovery scientist, I have experienced some amazing opportunities, and not only have I contributed to the development of new drugs, but I have also travelled around the world to give presentations on my work.

“Being a scientist, it is not difficult to export one’s expertise and knowledge anywhere in the world if you want to. I moved overseas a couple of times with my family, and it was always a great experience and new challenge. More recently I got the inspiration and opportunity to start BioAscent Discovery Ltd. to further develop my entrepreneurial skills. It is an amazing journey so far and I am so pleased to have chosen to be a scientist.”

Mhairi Matheson, Senior Scientist:

“I love the universal nature of science, and that it brings opportunities to work with people from all over the world. As part of my PhD, I was lucky enough to spend a summer working in the Tokyo Institute of Technology. I’ve always been drawn to drug discovery, contributing to the development of life-improving drugs is a good reason to get up in the morning.

“It can be difficult for women to remain in chemistry, there aren’t always many visible role models. It’s really important to me that my daughters are comfortable learning about science, so we try to read science books and do experiments at home. Happy International Day of Women and Girls in Science!”

Kate Fell, Scientist in Chemistry:

“I have always had a passion for science. From a young age I have been interested in chemistry, and I always loved the experimental side of my science subjects in school. A fascination with forensics inspired me to pursue a career in science, and I have enjoyed applying the techniques I have learned to lots of different sectors, including environmental and pharmaceutical industries. I love working in chemistry as there is always something new and exciting to learn!”

Kirsten Deytrikh, Senior Scientist in Chemistry and Business Development Associate:

“My career in science has allowed me to see many interesting places and work with colleagues from all over the world. I’ve travelled to places like India, France and Denmark to attend scientific conferences and I lived and worked in Switzerland for a year which was a fantastic experience!”

Gemma Baillie, Senior Scientist in Biosciences:

“Not long after finishing my PhD, I got the opportunity to move to Toronto, start a post doctoral fellowship and help set up a new lab. It was a wonderful experience both to be involved in the planning, purchasing and set up of the new lab and move to a new country. The independence I got in my career and as a person was life changing.”

Cheryl Pattie, Scientist in Biosciences:

“During my time at school I wanted to pursue a career in art/photography until I did higher Biology in 5th year and had a brilliant teacher. From that point, I knew I wanted to be involved in the science industry in some form.”

BioAscent is a dynamic integrated drug discovery and compound management CRO. We offer inspiring career opportunities to those looking to develop their career in a fast-paced and inspiring environment. To find out more about working at BioAscent, click here.