How I fell in love with science, and how my path was shaped by those before me

Why did I choose a career based in science?

As a young girl, I was always fascinated by science. My dad is a water treatment chemist, and through his encouragement and my own interest, I followed in his footsteps into a love of the subject. I vividly remember getting a chemistry set for Christmas in the early 00s and subscribing to the magazine ‘Horrible Science’ soon after, combining reading, learning and play for many years.  

In November 2006, I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Although this turned my world upside down, it eventually inspired me to study biomedicine and learn more about the condition I would have for life. Whilst at university, I specialised in T1D and its complications, allowing me further understanding of how to better look after myself and help others with T1D.  

Having T1D shaped my career and passions in life exponentially. I struggled as a teenager, as most of us do with T1D, with managing blood sugars, feeling different and fearing telling people about it in case they didn’t understand or didn’t care.  

When I reached university, I did not know I wanted to specialise in T1D, I just knew I wanted to do something that helped people. It was only after a few modules at university, and a great lecturer of mine having T1D, that it really began to pique my interest. 

In learning about the mechanics of T1D in my undergrad and master’s thesis, I then understood the complications more. Why high blood sugar affects things like our kidneys, eyes and nerves in a specific way. I think that sometimes the understanding behind why high blood sugars can be damaging is lost, which is why doing a job like I do is so important.  

My current role as Senior Research Communications Officer here at Breakthrough T1D allows me to convey my passion for science to everyone. It allows me to help people understand the importance of research and how it can help people manage and control their T1D in an easier and safer way.  

Feeling privileged to do what I do

My job means a lot to me. Communicating science to the general public, to be able to tell people what amazing work is being done is a privilege. Without those communicating the research, most people wouldn’t know of the exciting progress that is being made globally. 

Historically, women have been on the back foot in many ways. From equal rights to career paths, there are struggles that we face that men in a similar position might not. It is important to acknowledge the women who pushed initial boundaries, who strove for equality to allow women to thrive in scientific communities.  

Without those before us, women in science would not be where they are today. The progress and strides they took over 100 years ago now allow women to be leaders in their field. This acknowledgement is an important part of a day like today, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science.