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! 

Margaret, what do you think are some misconceptions about careers in science, and how do you hope to challenge those perceptions through your work?

"I think a major misconception about careers in science is that you need a PhD to have one or that you need a PhD to advance your career. When I graduated with a BS in Molecular Biology, I wasn’t sure I wanted to pursue a MS or a PhD at that time. I was burnt out and had student loans. So, I instead went right into an academic research job. I took advantage of the tuition benefits and took a couple of MS classes part-time while working full-time. I learned that I enjoyed the lab more and that the coursework wasn’t needed because my PI was willing to train me directly on the techniques and teach me the science behind his research. He let me develop my own research projects and I was able to publish (including a first-author paper) all with “just a BS”.

In his lab, I was as productive as a post-doc and starting a PhD program would have been a big pay-cut for me. It didn’t make sense. My career could have continued that trajectory of “on the bench” researcher and some people with “just a BS” do just that and lead their own projects the same as a PhD would. For myself – I have held a dual role of “on bench” and “lab manager” for most of my career. Eventually I transitioned solely to lab management. And there are now many potential career paths open to me “outside the lab”. As a lab manager I interface with Administration; Environment, Health & Safety; Facilities; Finance and Procurement. I know many people in those career areas who also used to be “on the bench” and/or a lab manager. Most have “just a BS” but are gainfully employed and are still supporting scientific research."

What are some behind-the-scenes aspects of your work that people might not realize are essential to QBI’s/the lab's achievements?

"Purchase Tracking Data. How do you know what to ask for in a grant application to carry out the proposed research? With our purchases tracked and categorized I know what it takes. I can calculate what % is spent on each category or experiment type we can use that data as guidance for grant application budgets. When more complex grant applications come up that need more detailed and itemized budgets, I can very quickly pull together the exact catalogue number, price, and quantity needed for an experiment. Something that initially seems very daunting (we need an exact itemized budget and 100% cost verification documentation) I can do in a couple hours. And when grant applications are getting down to a submission deadline this becomes one of the least stressful items on the long list of needs. QBI has been applying for more of those kinds of grants lately and I’ve been able to share my templates and process with our collaborating labs so that they too can do a fast turnover on putting together their pieces. Because sometimes it is a very tight timeline from when request for proposals open to submission due."

How has your personal background or perspective influenced the way you approach your work?

"I am the 3rd of 6 children and the age difference from oldest to youngest is 8 yrs. My childhood was filled with chaos, different personalities, and varying needs from everyone that my parents managed. I approach the lab as if it is a big family. Everyone has their own priorities, goals, and needs. I’m comfortable working within that chaos. I recognize that everyone’s personality is different, and I can tailor how I operate to work better with those personalities. I can keep track of the ever-changing needs of the lab. The lab has the same goal of doing great science similar to how a big family has the goal of getting along while all living under the same roof."

What advice would you give to young women and girls aspiring to careers in STEM - especially those who may not see traditional definitions of success as attainable or appealing, or who might not often see themselves represented in the field?

"Careers in STEM can be non-traditional, and success is what you make of it. Maybe that’s a steady paycheck, maybe it’s doing something you are passionate about every day. Maybe it’s hitting that jackpot of being paid to do what you are passionate about. Recognize that a career is more than just the job you have now. It is something you are in control of and can develop by the choices you made. By its nature it changes, and you change with it. So be open to change, to learning and doing new things – especially the things you are passionate about. Those are the kinds of choices that will lead you to success.

Seek out people who emulate qualities you value. Those are your mentors. They might not be in your career field, but the best qualities are applicable to all fields. I have had many great mentors in mine and other fields. I recognize and appreciate different qualities from each of them and I try to emulate those qualities every day to achieve my career goals."