Leading the Way: Women Share their Stories in Science

Edina joined Fresenius Kabi in January of 2019 and is currently working as a Project Manager in Quality Assurance, responsible for Europe and Asia.

Why did you choose a career in science? 

I chose a career in science because I wanted to make a difference in the health of patients. I always had a passion for healthcare growing up and really enjoyed Biology and Mathematics subjects in school. After school I decided to study Pharmacy and have never looked back. The Covid-19 pandemic made me realize the difference I make in the world through my work. 

What challenges have you encountered in your career so far? 

I have been fortunate to have mentors and people who saw the potential in me and given me opportunities for growth. One of the major challenges faced in the science sector when starting out is opportunities for learning and growth. Many young people have great potential but lack experience and therefore they need opportunities to learn and develop their skills and gain experience. 

What career advice would you give to other women/girls interested in or working in the field of science? 

You can do it! Start somewhere and be willing to try different fields before you settle on what you are most passionate about. The world of science is big and there’s always opportunities to learn new things and grow. Lastly, find people doing what you want to do and let them mentor and guide you along your path.

Melanie is the Head of Toxicology at Fresenius Kabi and joined the company in March of 2012. She is a board-certified Veterinary Pathologist, a diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology and has a PhD in Biomedical Sciences.

Why did you choose a career in science?  

I would like to make the world a little better – science always means further improvement. And I like to solve puzzles. We know a lot about how the human body works. In many aspects, however, it is still an exciting mystery to us that needs to be researched. 

What challenges have you encountered in your career so far?  

After completing my doctorate, my biggest challenge was deciding in which field, and in which form I would like to work academically. In the end, it did not become the classic university path, but it was a conscious decision for toxicology in the pharmaceutical industry. Now, my biggest challenge is to reconcile work and family life, especially when exciting projects conflict with childcare hours. However, the industry is generally very good and flexible. 

What career advice would you give to other women/girls interested in or working in the field of science? 

Find a field of science that you are really passionate about and strive for the highest possible certified degree in that field. At the same time, build a network by reaching out to people and being open to opportunities. If you enjoy what you do and share it with other people – then the rest will come by itself.

Thanh-Tien Can joined Fresenius Kabi in October 2020 and is currently working as Head of Production in the manufacturing of I.V. bags.

Why did you choose a career in science? 

I chose my job as Production Manager because I wanted to make a career as a pharmacist in the pharmaceutical industry. My dream has always been to help people with their health. As production manager, I have the opportunity to fulfill part of this by making sure that the required medicines and medical devices can be manufactured according to the regulations, to the highest quality and made available to the patient in a timely manner. 

What challenges have you encountered in your career so far?  

At the beginning of my career, I was indirectly confronted with the fact that I was too young for such a job, and I was told that it could be more difficult as a woman. That made me a bit insecure at first but turns out this is not the case. It's always up to you. In my opinion, the most important thing is authenticity. Be yourself and don't ever pretend to be someone else in order to please other people. All the challenges I have faced and mastered helped me grow. I learned and accepted that you can learn not only from your successes but also from failures, they are part of life. Without these challenges, life would be pretty boring.

What career advice would you give to other women/girls interested in or working in the field of science? 

My career advice is: Be yourself. Stand behind yourself and don't let others intimidate you.