Consultant Spotlight - April 2024

How long have you been with miLEAD? 

I'm thrilled to have been part of the miLEAD team for the past 2.5 years! I've loved working closely with this exceptionally talented group. I'm excited to continue learning and growing alongside this incredible team, and I can't wait to see what the future has in store for miLEAD.

What is the focus of your research?

I study DNA viruses. Ultimately, this research will give us deeper insights into the mechanisms by which viruses interact with and manipulate host cells, which can lead to the development of human diseases. By better understanding these viral-host cell dynamics, we hope to unlock new avenues for therapeutic intervention and disease prevention.

What are your current career goals?

Reflecting on the journey that has brought me to this point, the prospect of transitioning into life sciences consulting emerges as a particularly compelling next step. From navigating intricate regulatory landscapes to driving groundbreaking R&D, these organizations operate at the forefront of scientific advancement, addressing challenges with profound implications for human health and disease. The opportunity to apply my expertise in molecular biology to support new innovations is deeply appealing. Collaborating with cross-functional teams to devise tailored solutions for industry leaders is also incredibly energizing to me. I thrive on consulting work's creative, dynamic nature—a chance to blend my technical know-how with a business-oriented mindset. I eagerly anticipate applying my expertise through these avenues in new and impactful ways.

What roles have you played on projects? 

I have taken on consulting and project management roles. As a consultant, my focus has been on understanding client needs, collaboratively developing creative solutions, ensuring rigorous execution, and ultimately delivering quantifiable value. In the project manager capacity, I aimed to cultivate an environment where team members could grow in their roles and thrive, while consistently meeting client expectations and deadlines. Achieving team development and client success goals in parallel has been immensely fulfilling.

What led you to seek out milead?

I sought out miLEAD as an opportunity to challenge myself, step outside my comfort zone, and gain valuable professional skills that would benefit me in both academic and non-academic career paths. Additionally, as a first-year graduate student navigating the landscape of 2020, I was searching for a sense of community and belonging. Joining a miLEAD project felt like becoming part of a close-knit team, nurturing camaraderie, collaboration, and personal growth. This unique aspect of miLEAD resonated with me, making my involvement a deeply rewarding experience, especially amidst the challenges of the time.

Since joining miLEAD, what skills have you been able to develop?

My involvement with miLEAD has been incredibly enriching, allowing me to develop a wide array of transferable skills that are immensely valuable for graduate students and postdocs, regardless of their desired career paths. Through engaging in miLEAD projects, I have greatly enhanced my abilities in crafting impactful slide decks and delivering compelling presentations, which are crucial for effectively communicating ideas and findings in both academic and professional settings. Furthermore, I have gained invaluable hands-on experience in project management, teamwork, and client relations, all of which are essential skills that can be readily applied across diverse industries and roles. miLEAD has provided me with an exceptional opportunity to complement my graduate education with practical, real-world experiences that will undoubtedly contribute to my success in achieving future goals.

What has been one of your most rewarding experiences thus far working with miLEAD? 

One of the most rewarding aspects of my miLEAD experience has been the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of graduate students and postdocs from various disciplines across the university. Through collaborating on projects and engaging in discussions, I have gained exposure to a wide range of perspectives, research areas, and expertise. This interdisciplinary networking has not only enriched my own knowledge and understanding but has also fostered a sense of community and camaraderie among my peers. These connections have been invaluable, as they have opened doors to potential collaborations, provided a support system during challenging times, and created lasting friendships that extend beyond the scope of our miLEAD projects.