This week’s Wednesday’s Woman in STEM features Annie Lau-Kilby. Read on to learn about how her own mentor in grad school and fellow women in her lab encouraged her during her studies. She now serves as a mentor to other kids, including her own two!
How did you first become interested in STEM?
Biology was my favorite subject at high school. I love the idea of applying both logic and creativity into science experiments! Even if your experiment fail, it’s always a learning opportunity.
Where did you go to school and what did you study?
I completed my graduate studies in Aberdeen, north of Scotland, in immunology – the study of our immune system. I had an incredible grad school mentor who was so passionate about his work and made me proud of what I do every day. Interestingly, after grad school, I have always worked in women-led labs. My most recent publication on RSV and neonatal response are entirely women-authored. In my current position in a biotech company where we integrate science to bring the best innovative therapies for patients, I am also surrounded by many talented and driven women scientists and clinicians.
What is your current career and how do you use your interests in STEM on a day-to-day basis?
I am currently part of the Research team at a biotech company called Viela Bio. As a scientist, I utilize my hands-on skillset to generate scientific data with lab experiments every day; I also use my deep scientific knowledge to inform strategies that improve clinical trial designs – this ultimately provide patients with more innovative therapies and more treatment options. Every day I feel incredibly fortunate to be in a position where my work can make a real difference in a patient’s life.
What do you like most about your current job? What do you find most challenging?
I love the creativity in designing and executing an experiment to test a specific hypothesis; I love working with my many talented colleagues, who are scientists and clinicians; I love being able to constantly learn from each other every day and thereby improving what we do. I think being a scientist is such a unique career – you get to use your creativity every day, and seeing the results of your experiments is so rewarding; every day is different and I am always excited to see what the next day brings!
What advice would you give to young girls who are interested in pursuing STEM activities or careers?
Always do what you are passionate about. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise. I am very passionate about promoting STEM for younger children, especially elementary school aged children. I have 2 young children and I am always keen to promote the fun and creativity in science for them and their friends. If your child is interested in STEM, don’t be afraid to get involved at her school – I have organized a science fair, an after-school STEM club, even volunteered in the classroom to do a science experiment with the kids. Let your kids see your passion and they will follow!
