In honor of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, QBI is proud to present a special series of spotlight features celebrating some of the incredible women who help drive our success. This year’s theme, “Redefining Success,” highlights how accomplishments can take many forms. These interviews showcase the perspectives of women who work behind the scenes, shaping QBI’s achievements and pushing the boundaries of science in their own unique ways. Join us as we celebrate their hard work, diverse paths, and inspiring contributions to science!
Celine, how do you define success in your life, and has your definition evolved over time?
"In recent conversations with colleagues and friends, I’ve come to reflect on how the concept of success has traditionally been framed.
Growing up in the 90s, I felt encouraged to succeed academically in order to enter professions that were once reserved for men, and to “become men like everyone else”. Meanwhile, I sensed that the reverse was not really considered: boys moving into traditionally female professions would have meant challenging the hierarchy of values, which was largely unthinkable.
For much of my career, I unconsciously followed this traditional idea of success: a linear climb up an imaginary ladder modeled after a male trajectory. Only recently did I come to realize that success can take many different forms. It’s not just about titles or reaching the highest position; it’s also about the projects you contribute to, the meaningful connections you build, and the impact you have on those around you.
For a long time, I struggled with impostor syndrome because my career path wasn’t linear, but at one point, despite, or perhaps thanks to, this, I consciously decided that I didn’t need to aim for the top, finding fulfillment instead in being someone others could rely on. Does that make me successful? It’s hard for me to say yes, because part of me always wonders if I could have done more. But maybe that feeling is also what keeps me motivated, constantly striving for growth.
Ultimately, success isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. It’s about finding purpose, making a difference, and defining achievement on your own terms."
What are some behind-the-scenes aspects of your work that people might not realize are essential to QBI’s achievements?
"When I was working in the lab, I often wondered what all the administrative staff were actually doing. Now that I’m on the other side, I have a whole new appreciation for just how much happens behind the scenes! It’s been fascinating to see how science is supported beyond the bench, but I also realize there’s still a gap in communication between scientists and the people working to keep everything running smoothly. There’s definitely room for improvement there.
At QBI, where large-scale collaborations are at the heart of our mission, ensuring seamless coordination is essential. From managing logistics for multi-institutional projects to keeping teams connected and aligned, a lot of effort goes into making sure collaborations run efficiently.
Another key area is grant support, identifying funding opportunities, preparing all non-scientific documents, and ensuring proposals are polished and complete. This allows scientists to focus on their research while we handle the administrative complexities. We also assist with proposal editing, helping to refine applications to maximize their impact.
Finally, communication plays a huge role. Whether it’s promoting research findings, organizing events, or ensuring clear internal coordination, effective communication is critical to QBI’s success. Behind every breakthrough, there’s a team working to create the right environment for science to thrive."
How has your personal background or perspective influenced the way you approach your work at QBI?
"My personal background has definitely shaped how I approach my work at QBI. I was the first in my family to obtain a PhD, so I know what it’s like to navigate academia without a built-in support system. That’s why creating opportunities for others, especially those who might not always be seen or recognized, is important to me. When I was at UC Berkeley, I helped run a program for underrepresented post-bac students, and it was an amazing experience to support young scientists from diverse backgrounds as they worked toward joining a PhD program.
Here at QBI, working with African scientists has been absolutely inspiring; their energy, passion, and determination are incredible. Being part of their journey by helping to increase access, mentorship, and visibility has been both eye-opening and rewarding.
At the end of the day, science is at its best when we create a supportive and inclusive environment; one where everyone’s contributions are valued, and the next generation of scientists feels confident and equipped to step up and make a difference."
How do you balance professional accomplishments with other priorities in your life, and what advice would you give to others seeking that balance?
"Balancing work and life, especially family? Honestly, it’s a never-ending juggling. I’ve been there, and when I look around at young moms today, not much has changed. They’re still trying to do it all, still feeling guilty, and still wondering if they’re doing enough. As someone once put it, “They have to work as if they don’t have kids, and they have to take care of the kids as if they do not have a job.” That pressure is real.
When I moved to the U.S. nine years ago, I was surprised by how much is expected of parents: volunteering at school, attending activities in the middle of the day, showing up for every soccer practice, bringing snacks… all while maintaining a full workload. And on top of that, there’s this pressure to be the “perfect mom,” which is a total myth.
I had my kids in Barcelona, where things felt a bit more relaxed. Of course, no place is perfect, but I do wish there were more open conversations about these challenges openly, honestly, and without guilt. My advice? Just do what you can. Perfection doesn’t exist anyway! And let’s be honest, no matter what you do, your kid will probably blame you for something. Might as well have some fun along the way!"
