UCLB inspires the next generation of women and girls in science

To mark the International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024, UCLB and UCLTF team members give their tips on breaking down barriers, and what inspired their journey. 

Christine Madla-Angeles, Associate Business Manager (Social Ventures), Physical Sciences & Engineering, Social Ventures, UCLB

Tell us about your role.  

I’m an Associate Business Manager at UCLB, focusing the translation of UCL research towards social ventures. I work across the whole UCL research landscape, supporting academics in the commercialisation of their work to achieve impact at scale. For example, I’m currently working on supporting Dr Aida Suarez Gonzalez on the development of ReadClear: an evidence-based reading aid developed by scientists at the UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology.  We are supporting the development of ReadClear through finding potential partners who will license the technology, as well as exploring other routes to impact. 

What led you to a role working in technology transfer?

I have always loved working close to science, but soon knew during my PhD that I did not want to be stuck in a lab again! I was also involved in enterprise and spinouts during my MSc and PhD, and ended up lecturing at the UCL School of Management on their MSc Entrepreneurship programme. Working within tech transfer allows me to be in the forefront of the excellent research that comes out of UCL, as well as deep into the innovation strategies that gets these technologies closer to who would most benefit from them.   

Are there any female scientists that you looked up to when you were younger?  

I recommend reading the book Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez. She excellently describes the data biases and gap, not only in pharmaceutical research, but also in society. I had the pleasure of getting my copy signed after one of her plenary talks back in 2019! 

Do you have any advice for young girls aspiring to pursue a role in STEM?   

Get comfortable feeling uncomfortable. There will be internal biases in whatever journey you take, but don’t let that limit what you think you are capable of.  

Irene Li, Project Manager, UCLB

Tell us about your role.   

I’m new to the Project Management team at UCLB. As a Project Manager, I’m immersed in the realm of bioscience projects. This role exhilarates me as it grants exposure to the forefront of technology, which can be translated into economically viable solutions. Some initiatives we’re working on have the potential to address treatment areas such as rare diseases, and can therefore have a profound impact on the healthcare industry.  

What led you to a role working in technology transfer?   

I come from a STEM background and hold an MBA degree. My passion lies in technology transfer and the practical realisation of advancements to make them accessible to a wider audience. My commitment to finding real-world applications for technology makes a role in technology transfer ideal for me.  

Are there any female scientists that you looked up to when you were younger?   

I have always admired Marie Curie for her remarkable contributions and unwavering dedication to science. Her pioneering work in radioactivity not only revolutionised our understanding of the fundamental properties of matter but also paved the way for countless medical advancements.  

Do you have any advice for young girls aspiring to pursue a role in STEM?    

Maintain a perpetual curiosity to explore the unknown realms and prepare yourself for challenges, poised to unravel their complexities.  

Sara Watson, Investment Analyst, UCL Technology Fund

Tell us about your role.  

Having completed several internships with the UCL Technology Fund (UCLTF) I’m quite new to my current role as an Investment Analyst. UCLTF invests in IP commercialisation opportunities arising from UCL’s research base, and I help the life sciences team evaluate the phenomenal work that is coming out of UCL, with the goal of helping to translate this research into transformative therapies. 

Why did you choose to work at the intersection of life science and venture capital industry? 

During my PhD at UCL I had the opportunity to explore life science venture capital during an internship with UCLTF, and during those three months something just clicked. I’m driven by the fact that I can contribute to bridging the gap between scientific innovation and real-world applications. Academic institutions, like UCL, are fantastic incubators for groundbreaking ideas and, as a seed stage fund, with boots on the ground, we get to help foster the growth of these entrepreneurs and technologies. 

Are there any female scientists that you looked up to when you were younger?  

When I was younger, I heard a talk by Dr. Sylvia Earle, the first woman to be appointed as Chief Scientist of NOAA, at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. I had a passion for marine biology, but was also very shy.  When Dr. Earle opened the floor for questions, to everyone’s surprise, my hand shot up. Even as an adult, who still struggles with public speaking, I take pride in the memory of little 7-year-old Sara, bravely standing in front of a packed auditorium, driven by her thirst for knowledge. 

In following that thirst, I continue to draw inspiration from remarkable scientists like Dr. Earle, as well as Dr. Rosalind Franklin, Katherine Johnson, and Dr. Marie Skłodowska-Curie.  

Do you have any advice for young girls aspiring to pursue a role in STEM?   

Embrace the diversity within STEM fields. STEM takes many shapes – from biology to engineering, computer science to environmental science. Don’t feel constrained by preconceived notions; explore different areas to find what resonates with you. 

Remember, journeys in STEM are not always linear. It’s okay if you don’t have everything figured out from the start! Be open to pivoting and discovering new interests along the way. 

Above all, keep and feed your curiosity: ask questions, seek answers, and never stop learning. The most exciting discoveries often come from those who are curious and persistent. Embrace challenges, stay determined, and know that your unique perspective is always a valuable contribution to the world. 

Leigh Brody, Investment Manager, UCL Technology Fund

Tell us about your role.  

I’m an investment manager for UCL Technology Fund, which means I spend most of my time evaluating and selecting promising translational research for investment. I conduct thorough due diligence, considering market trends and prospective financial returns. Once invested, I actively collaborate with the UCLTF team and UCLB, offering strategic guidance to contribute to their growth and success.  

Why did you choose to work at the intersection of life science and venture capital industry? 

It allows me to be at the forefront of groundbreaking innovations. The prospect of shaping the future of biotechnology and building off my personal experience of spinning out a company from my PhD, to play a role in bringing impactful therapies to market is what drew me to this intersection. 

Are there any female scientists that you looked up to when you were younger?  

Absolutely. I was fortunate enough to work under some remarkable mentors during my undergraduate training and while at the Broad Institute, who inspired a rich appreciation of experimental work as well as thinking longer term about my career. As I’ve progressed, it’s been inspiring to see female scientists achieve success like Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier pioneering the CRISPR gene editing technology. 

Do you have any advice for young girls aspiring to pursue a role in STEM?   

Stay curious, persevere through challenges, and seek out mentors and role models. Embrace your passion for science and technology, and don’t be afraid to explore different disciplines within STEM. Surround yourself with a supportive community, and remember that your unique perspective and contributions are invaluable. Don’t hesitate to dream big!