Animal science: academia or industry?
As cliche as it sounds, I have always wanted to work with animals! When studying for my undergraduate degree in Animal Science, I was fortunate enough to land a role with a professor of microbiome studies who employed me to assist his Ph.D. students in their lab work during the summer holidays. I learned a huge amount including lab techniques and how to plan experiments, and this really gave me the bug for research. I was then offered a Ph.D. position immediately after graduating, so I remained at university to undertake a research project of my own. I then knew I definitely wanted to work in research.
As a Ph.D. student I was unsure whether I wanted to pursue a career in academia or industry. I undertook a post doctoral research position which gave me amazing opportunities such as travelling to Brazil and collaborating with other institutions, but something didn't quite click for me. During this time I attended a career day at Waltham Centre for Pet Nutrition (as it was known then) and I suddenly realised what I wanted to do and where I wanted to work at some point in my career. I really wanted to work at Waltham!
I continued to work on my post doc whilst finishing up my Ph.D. thesis and kept an eye on job vacancies at Waltham - I was then lucky enough that the perfect job came up at the right time, so I packed up my bags, moved across the country to Leicestershire, started my first "real" job, and the rest is history!
I use molecular biology to help inform us about pet health
I am part of the laboratory team at Waltham Petcare Science Institute, where we carry out the fundamental science that underpins Mars Petcare products. I am responsible for the running of my lab, which involves project planning, health, safety, and environmental considerations, and ensuring that we generate quality data.
I am also the technical lead for the area of molecular biology, so I can often be found troubleshooting methodologies and analysing samples, whilst also developing new methods and techniques that allows our research scientists to carry out exciting new projects. It is important that we keep up with changing technologies to make sure that our research is as current as possible.
I have recently undertaken the role of principal investigator for a research project, which has given me the opportunity to learn a plethora of new skills and work alongside a wide range of people from senior scientists, to animal technicians, product developers. Taking the lead on my own project has been a real challenge but I have really enjoyed learning about this aspect of scientific research and development.
I love knowing that what I do really makes a difference
It is incredibly rewarding to see how my work directly feeds into our mission to make a better world for pets. Working on such a range of research projects in a variety of areas allows me to see the impact that Mars Petcare has on our pets, particularly when I can visualise where the data that I generate are being used to inform product development. Being able to see so many happy cats and dogs at work every day is also a huge bonus for an animal lover like me and it really reminds me why we do what we do.
There is also so much scope for development both technically and personally, and I have learned a huge amount during my time in role which has enabled me to become a better researcher and associate. Working in a team that really encourages growth and provides opportunities means that every day is different and there are always new challenges on the horizon.
You are more than just your qualifications and experience
Whilst qualifications and experience are undoubtedly important, I have found that Mars are also extremely interested in people as individuals. There are a huge range of personal skills that add huge value to you as an associate, but if you don't have them all then that's okay! What really matters is that you are capable, willing, and driven, as there are so many opportunities for development within a role. You don't have to tick all of the boxes, you just need to have that "something" that Mars is looking for.
Taking up role of principal investigator for the first time
Taking on my first project as a principal investigator has been extremely rewarding. It required a *lot* of learning about new systems and processes, which ultimately resulted in a presentation of my project plan to the senior leadership team, including the vice president of Waltham. I was thrilled when my project was not just accepted for execution, but when I also received commendation of my performance from high ranking associates. The project was then carried out successfully with great feedback, which has given me a real confidence boost and is now making me consider this area of R&D as a future career move.
