1. Have you always wanted to be a scientist?

No, I went through different options from history to acting and photography. Finally, I chose a STEM-related field because I was good at science and I thought that choosing a degree in chemistry would offer diverse options in the future. Later, I took part in a specialized health training at the Spanish Ministry of Health, and as I became a Clinical Pathologist, I got interested in research. I realized that the results of applied research can be used daily in a clinical laboratory, allowing me to contribute to my professional field.

2. What is the most rewarding part of being a scientist for you?

First of all, as a clinical pathologist, especially in the area of ​​haematology, it is very rewarding to add value to the patient's diagnostic process. The job is very diverse due to the never-ending technological and medical advancements, requiring continuous training. As a researcher, it is rewarding to be able to communicate the obtained results either in scientific publications or in seminars, courses, or congresses.

3. What do you think that companies like SYNLAB can do to encourage more girls and women to seek careers in areas of life sciences?

As an international company, SYNLAB has the chance to incorporate science and research in the business strategy, getting a return from this investment. Therefore, it would be helpful to increase the attractiveness of such fields, not only as an example for other companies in the sector but, in general, for society, making the role of scientists and STEM-related fields visible and forging models for future generations.

4. What benefits did you as a scientist get from working in SYNLAB?

Developing my professional career at SYNLAB Spain has allowed me to work at a leading place in terms of technology and process management. Also, the large workload allows access to a variety of cases from a medical point of view. Besides, I have had the opportunity to develop my doctoral studies, which are currently in the final phase, using the data generated in our haematology department.

5.  Even though we see more women pursuing careers in the life sciences area, we still have a long way to go based on the UNESCO statistics. What would you tell a female high school graduate considering studies in life sciences?

I think that female high school graduates have nowadays more female role models, like Barbara J. Bain or Maryam Mirzajani. Besides, the current generation of parents realizes the importance of STEM fields and the development of a child’s potential regardless of gender as the outdated blue-pink dichotomy is being broken.

I would say that science requires remarkable stamina and grit. This path is one that allows us to make changes and to improve, starting with our health, as demonstrated in the current pandemic situation.