Celebrating International Women's Day

This #InternationalWomensDay hear from Megan Daly , our QC Manager, about the importance of women in #STEM, her experience in the industry and how she progressed through her career. Read the full article below! #IWD2023

1.????What is the importance of women in STEM to you, how do you champion this? And how is this important for Equity?

I believe the importance of women in STEM has become more pivotal than ever before. When I was younger, I lacked visibility of female mentors in my field of interest. However, throughout my time at university my encounters with women in STEM increased and I met some of the most incredible and inspiring women that have shaped me into who I am today. The skills I have gained throughout my career have been influenced greatly by these women and I aspire to mirror their compassion, drive and passion to anyone I encounter in my own journey.

The skillset and attributes that women in STEM bring to a team is unmatched. The combination of intelligence, logic, compassion and determination brought to the table allows equity within STEM to thrive. As a woman in STEM with Crohn’s Disease, I feel empowered to increase awareness to those around me and ensure an inclusive environment is available to all. Empowering equity gives rise to a more diverse workplace which benefits everyone by broadening their understanding when interacting with individuals of different cultures, genders and sexualities. Much like the microbiome, the more diverse the community, the more beneficial the outcome.

2.????What do you enjoy the most in this industry, as a female?

I love working in STEM because it is constantly evolving. As each day passes in science, a new discovery is made and there is no room for stagnant mindsets. Being surrounded by inquisitive people is contagious and why I feel equity comes naturally to EBX. Working with passionate and accomplished people developing and harnessing pioneering medicines for those most in need.

As someone who has been a patient in need of treatment over the years, knowing I am improving someone’s quality of life gives me a sense of satisfaction that is indescribable. I have worked alongside many empathetic and attentive women in industry and found that being treated as a ‘whole person’ rather than a ‘number’ resulted in a stronger, more respectful rapport. Teams of individuals are more effectively led when they are understood to be more than the persona that is perceived for their 8-hour shift.

3.????Has the Gearing for Growth training programme supported you, and others you work around??

I have been thoroughly enjoying the Geared for Growth training programme. Recently being promoted to Quality Control Manager at EBX I felt secure and supported knowing I was being enrolled in this course. My peers and mentors have allowed me to become vulnerable and establish my personal strengths and weaknesses. It is only from there I can truly work on areas in which I lack and I feel no shame or insecurity discussing these during my sessions. I feel influenced and encouraged that I am capable of my new role, something that I wish to instil into my team.

My increasing confidence in my abilities allows me to make difficult decisions that empower my team and support my line manager to work as effectively and efficiently as possible. I feel I am evolving in becoming a strong leader and one that I hope inspires others around me.?