I was always drawn to science as a kid, but I didn’t know which path I’d take until a single book changed my life: Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton. The idea of genetically manipulating DNA to create dinosaurs sparked my fascination with molecular biology.

That spark ultimately led me to a PhD in Genetics and Molecular Biology. In graduate school, I wasn’t creating dinosaurs, but something even more important and equally exciting: creating genetically engineered animal models to study how cancer develops. What began as curiosity about how cancer cells adapt and survive grew into a career as a cancer biologist, faculty member, and principal investigator at leading research institutions.

Along the way, I discovered that mentoring mattered to me even more than other milestones of success as a faculty member. Whether guiding undergraduates through their first experiments, helping graduate students publish, or supporting postdocs as they launched their careers, I found my deepest satisfaction in those conversations about setting goals, setbacks, and next steps. Over the years, I’ve mentored dozens of scientists who have gone on to successful careers in research, medicine, and beyond.

My commitment to mentorship inspired me to examine the distinction between mentoring and coaching. Although mentorship is commonly available to scientists, access to professional coaching remains rare, despite its potential to offer clarity, structure, and enhanced confidence for career development. Recognizing this gap inspired me to pursue coaching as a new way to serve the scientific community.

Now, at Success in Science Career Coaching, I bring both my scientific background and my passion for coaching to support the next generation of scientists. Whether you’re preparing for a transition, seeking clarity on your goals, or figuring out your very first steps, I’m here to help you find your way with confidence.

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