Realising a Future in Science: A Journey Shaped by Curiosity
Science was an instinctive pursuit from the start. Growing up as a self-confessed nerd who loved maths, puzzles, and computers, she built her own computer from spare parts and spent hours experimenting. For her, science, maths, and computing were simply different expressions of the same curiosity.
A pivotal turning point came during her first undergraduate internship at Pfizer. Working in an organic chemistry lab at a time when computer-aided drug design was still emerging, she found herself captivated by the potential of computational approaches. The following year, she returned to Pfizer to work specifically in computer-aided drug discovery, an experience that set a new trajectory for her career.
This path led her deeper into computational chemistry and ultimately into biotech, where she discovered the transformative impact of integrating computation with experimental science. Over time, she recognised that she could drive greater progress by building and leading scientific teams. Her move into investment represents the next chapter in that evolution, enabling her to support visionary scientists through her work at Entrée Bio and help bring bold new ideas to market.
What Excites Her Most in the Next Five Years
The rise of data science in drug discovery brings both excitement and caution. While she jokes that “the nerds were doing data science before it was cool,” she is wary of the hype currently surrounding AI in the sector.
She sees enormous potential for data science and machine learning to accelerate key aspects of drug discovery, but emphasises that neither is a shortcut or a miracle solution. For real transformation, she argues, companies must invest in the less glamorous but essential foundations: data standards, automation, integration, and reproducibility. These infrastructural components rarely attract widespread excitement from executives or investors, yet they underpin every breakthrough.
As an investor, she is keen to inject realism into the AI conversation, supporting teams that prioritise long-term impact over short-term hype. Her concern is that inflated expectations could lead to disappointment before the industry has the chance to demonstrate the true value of these technologies.
The Most Defining Moment of Her Career
The most defining moment came early in her career, when she made the difficult decision to speak out against sexual harassment. With no safety net and fears of retaliation or blacklisting, the risk felt enormous. She worried that standing up for herself could jeopardise her future before it had even begun.
Yet, when she finally spoke up, the response was overwhelmingly supportive. Mentors, colleagues, and even distant acquaintances made it clear that her courage mattered, and that integrity deserved protection.
This experience reshaped her understanding of leadership. It reinforced the importance of creating environments where integrity is essential rather than optional, and where people feel safe to challenge unacceptable behaviour. It remains a guiding force in how she leads and builds teams today.
A Preview of Her Sessions at Advanced Therapies Week 2026
At Advanced Therapies Week 2026, she will be speaking in two sessions that bridge social science, industry strategy, and global policy.
Her keynote will examine women’s progress in science and leadership through a data-driven lens. Rather than offering simplistic advice about confidence or “leaning in,” she will unpack common myths and highlight the systemic factors that genuinely influence career trajectories. Grounded in organisational and social science data, the session aims to give attendees practical insights into what truly drives change.
Her second session, a main-stage panel, focuses on geopolitics and regulation in advanced therapies. The discussion will explore how shifting funding priorities — particularly the decline in public and philanthropic support for mRNA research since the pandemic — are shaping innovation. The panel will also consider global advocacy efforts, including the work of the Alliance for mRNA Medicines, and examine how APAC nations and other emerging regions are building their own advanced therapy infrastructure. This diversification has far-reaching implications for supply chains, regulatory alignment, and global access.
What She’s Most Looking Forward to at ATW
For her, the most exciting part of ATW is the cross-pollination between science, policy, and investment. These intersections reveal how ideas become therapies and how innovation is shaped by regulatory and economic realities.
She is also continuing fundraising efforts for Entrée Bio and scouting for founders and technologies that align with her vision of deep-tech-enabled science. And, as someone based in Boston, she admits she is eagerly anticipating a few days of warmth in San Diego during February’s coldest weeks.
Her Advice to Those Entering the Field Today
Her guidance is simple: be clear about what you are optimising for. The life sciences industry often prioritises rapid career progression, but titles and prestige do not guarantee fulfilment.
She stresses that meaningful work usually comes from engaging science and surrounding yourself with the right people. Throughout her career, she has chosen roles based on purpose and excitement rather than optics, decisions that consistently led to deeper impact and joy.
She also reflects on the pressures created by the “girlboss” era, suggesting that the constant push to be polished and productive is neither realistic nor healthy. She champions balance, rest, and perspective, arguing that these are essential ingredients for a sustainable and satisfying career.
Her overarching message is clear: build a life that aligns with your values and ambitions, and let your career evolve in support of that vision rather than allowing it to dictate your happiness.
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