A day in the life of an Upstream Scientist

Ian Tovar Matthews joined Oxford Biomedica four years ago, and since then has developed his expertise as a recent graduate to a Scientist IV Upstream. In this article, Ian explains about his role, his career journey at Oxford Biomedica and the values demonstrated within his team.

?What is your current role and what are you responsible for?

I work as an upstream scientist in Process R&D. As part of the Process Design and Delivery (PDD) group my main responsibility is supporting client projects through early and late stage process development and communicating effectively with the client and internal project managers. I am also responsible for a range of technical development projects, utilising OXB’s proprietary products to increase process understanding and to inform the evolution of our generic platform processes.

Tell us about your career journey at Oxford Biomedica.

I joined OXB as a Scientist II in early 2019, having recently graduated from university. Over my four years here I have undergone a huge amount of personal and professional development with the support of my colleagues and managers, and this has prepared me for the transition towards more of a leadership role within my projects. Now a Scientist IV, I am the upstream lead for one of our largest client projects.

What is the best part of your job?

As someone who is always looking to challenge myself, I love the sheer diversity of work and opportunities that exist within OXB. Working in multidisciplinary and cross-departmental teams provides plenty of opportunities to learn about different aspects of the company and wider industry. I have developed skills that I would never have expected simply by being exposed to them during various projects.?

How would you describe the culture at Oxford Biomedica??

There is a culture of inclusivity at OXB, where diversity is celebrated.

What values do you see demonstrated within your team?

The team consists of genuine, creative, and hard-working people who never hesitate to support and advise me whenever I reach out. It is a team of people that care about their work as well as the people that they work with.

What is the best career advice you have ever given/received?

Always try to give your best even on days you don’t want to.

You don’t always have to be the expert in the room.

What would be the most surprising scientific discovery imaginable?

If someone could figure out teleportation that would be great. Long day in the lab? I think I’ll teleport to Bora Bora for some R&R!