What do you do at Qkine?

A little bit of everything! In my role, I support multiple projects making buffers, gels, protein expression and refolding tests. Recently, I’ve dived deeper into protein purification, which I love. Right now, I’m leading my own project (with Helen as my supervisor) while still jumping in wherever the team needs me. I also analyse data and research topics regarding my active projects, so there’s a nice balance between hands-on lab work and time at the computer.

What would you be doing if you weren’t in biotech?

If I didn’t work in science, I think I’d do something creative, maybe open a bakery or work in a flower shop. I’ve always liked the idea of embracing that creative side. Another option would be to become a yoga teacher, because I really love yoga. So, definitely something more artistic or wellness focused.

What’s your go-to weekend activity for recharging?

Weekends are all about slowing down for me. I love sleeping in, sometimes eight or nine hours, and occasionally even ten if I can! Waking up without an alarm feels amazing. I usually rewatch my favorite comfort shows like Smallville, The Big Bang Theory, or Rick and Morty (I’ve probably watched that ten times!). I also dedicate time to yoga because it helps me stay grounded and balanced. It’s my little ritual for mental and physical wellness. On Sundays, I make it a point to go for a run in the morning, it’s my way of ending the weekend on a high note.

What song is on repeat in your lab playlist?

We don’t play music in the lab, but I’m allowed to use my AirPods, so I always have something playing. It really depends on the season or what I’m currently fixated on. Right now, I’m obsessed with Hamilton. Specifically, “Non-Stop” from the original cast recording is on repeat for me. I love musicals because they’re so catchy, and once I get hooked, I can’t stop. A couple of months ago, I started listening to Hamilton, then watched it on Disney+, and recently even saw it live. Now I’m deep in my Hamilton phase, and “Non-Stop” just has the perfect energy for powering through experiments.

How do you explain your job to your parents or grandparents?

Honestly, it’s always a challenge because my parents are very old-school, and I’m the youngest in the family. Trying to explain what a cell is to my dad is already a mission! When they ask, I usually keep it simple and say, “I work in a lab, focusing on proteins, specifically growth factors that help cells grow and differentiate.” That’s usually where the conversation ends because it’s hard to explain without going into too much science. If they push for more details, I try to clarify, but it often turns into a series of “What does that mean?” questions. In the end, they just say, “As long as you’re happy, we’re happy,” and that’s good enough for them!

Early bird or night owl?

Not gonna lie, I’m kind of a bit of both. It really depends on the week or even the day. I’d like to be more of an early bird because it feels healthier, but after a long day at work, when you finally get home, you’re like, “Do I really need to go to bed now?” So you tell yourself just five more minutes… and before you know it, that’s turned into an hour or two. Then you end up going to bed late but still have to wake up early.

So yeah, it’s like a mix between being an early bird and a night owl. And the next day, you’re exhausted. You blame yourself for staying up late, but at the same time, you just have to keep going.

What’s your go-to snack during a long experiment or late meeting?

Honestly, I try not to keep snacks around because I have zero self-control, I’ll just eat them all. But if there are biscuits in the office, they don’t stand a chance.

My favorite snacks, though, are definitely salted popcorn and chocolate (but not together, that would feel like a crime!). I love popcorn loaded with salt, maybe with a Coke Zero on the side, and just keep munching.

I really like crisps too, especially lentil crisps, there’s a brand called Proper that I really like. If I have a bag of those, it’s game over. At least they’re not super high-calorie, so I don’t feel too bad.

Oh, and for a while, I was obsessed with hummus and pita as an afternoon snack, but I had to stop because I think it was messing with my skin.

So yeah, popcorn, chocolate, crisps, and the occasional hummus phase!

What’s a challenge you overcame that you're proud of?

One challenge I’m really proud of overcoming was moving to the UK by myself for university. I had no family here, and I had to figure everything out on my own, finding a place to live, managing bills, and supporting myself financially while studying.

To make it work, I took on two jobs while doing my degree in Pharmaceutical Science at Anglia Ruskin University. Balancing work and full-time studies was tough, especially because I moved in 2020 during COVID. That first year was incredibly isolating, classes were online, I couldn’t meet people, and even simple things like going to the supermarket were restricted.

It was a huge adjustment, but it taught me resilience, independence, and time management. Looking back, I’m proud I got through that period, graduated, and built a life here.

Finish this sentence: In the lab, I’m known for…

In the lab, I’m known for being the one who likes everything clean and organised. I can’t stand mess. I just think it makes things easier and safer for everyone when the space is neat.

Final words for future biotech dreamers?

Stay curious and never stop learning. Science is such a broad field, and there’s always something new to discover, whether it’s tackling diseases like cancer or finding innovative solutions to global challenges. Passion and persistence are key, because the work you do can truly make a difference. Remember, when you stop learning, you stop growing, so keep that curiosity alive.