Welcome to Persistent Curiosity

This episode takes you behind the scenes of innovation and product development, showcasing the journey from concept to supermarket shelf from a food science perspective. Our guest, Kirsten Sutaria, shares her insights on creating products for iconic brands like Ben & Jerry's and Innocent Drinks, the reality of launching her own food brand, Doozy Pots, and offers invaluable career and leadership advice for STEM professionals. Discover the magic of science in everyday products and gain inspiration from Kirsten's story of resilience and creativity. Whether you're in STEM, aspiring to enter the field, or simply curious about the science behind your favorite products, this episode is both insightful and inspiring.Listen and enjoy!For more information about Eric, visit: https://www.tshaped.org/podcast-7For more information about the podcast go to www.tshaped.org/podcast

Launching a biotech startup is a challenging yet rewarding venture, combining cutting-edge scientific research with strategic business acumen. It offers the exciting possibility of advancing medical science and delivering innovative healthcare solutions.In this episode, we're talking with Dr. Eric Ekland, CEO of Anvesana, who shares his journey from a postdoc to an investment banking analyst and then to CEO of a startup. Eric provides a recipe for building a successful startup, including strong people management and creative thinking. He offers insights and practical tips on navigating the evolving biotech landscape. Eric also shares his personal career tips for success, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and exploring diverse opportunities.Listen and enjoy!For more information about Eric, visit: https://www.tshaped.org/podcast-6For more information about the podcast go to www.tshaped.org/podcast

Have you ever felt scared or stressed about trying something new, such as public speaking, networking, or asking for help? Taking small steps and gradually exposing yourself to these challenges can help you overcome your fears and grow stronger as discussed with today’s guest - Dr Alex Williams.In today’s episode, we examine themes of exploration and experimentation. We’ll dive into Alex’s career journey and discuss the importance of being willing to seize opportunities, and how doing so can be transformative. We’ll also talk about authenticity in networking and job interviews, and explore the intriguing concept of the 'PO' approach to life. More information and links: https://www.tshaped.org/podcast-5Listen in and enjoy! For more information about the podcast go to www.tshaped.org/podcast

How is it to work at a national lab? This career path, extending beyond academia, intrigues many who are curious about its dynamics and opportunities.In this episode, we're talking with Dr. Samantha Erwin, who will offer us an insider's perspective. We'll explore the realities of life in a national lab, uncovering the unique challenges and rewards of this career path. Sam will also share insights from her personal career journey and provide tips for professional success. If you've ever been curious about the day-to-day life, career progression, and the impact of research conducted in national labs, stay tuned for an enlightening conversation.For more information about the podcast go to www.tshaped.org/podcast

In a world where career paths are rarely straight, each twist and turn can lead to unexpected and fulfilling destinations. In this episode, Andrea Zick shares her journey from working in kitchens as a chef to working towards gaining her PhD. With a wealth of experience and wisdom, Andrea shares the lessons of appreciation, the balance of success and failure in a PhD, and the importance of seizing opportunities with both hands.As we explore Andrea's path, she emphasizes the need to value your work and ensure proper compensation. Her story is not just one of personal growth but also a guide on navigating the professional world with integrity and passion.For more information about the podcast go to www.tshaped.org/podcast

Navigating the transition from academia to industry can be daunting, as many feel that pure academic experiences don't always align with the corporate world. Also, there's a common perception that once you leave academic labs for boardrooms, the journey back might not be possible.In this episode, Dr Oliver Müller shares his journey from academia to tech giant Google...and back, proving that such transitions happen. I asked him about his decision-making process when moving between academia and the tech world and we compared these two professional realms. We also talked about the importance of work-life balance and mental well-being and uncovered strategies for making sound career decisions.For more information about the podcast go to www.tshaped.org/podcast

You've probably heard the saying, "Science not communicated is science not done." It underscores the importance of sharing scientific knowledge beyond the research labs.In this episode, Prof Giles Yeo shares an insight into his career story combining research and science communication. We discussed the role luck played in his career journey and how proactive efforts, like knocking on people’s doors, led him to a postdoc position that evolved into a 25-year career. Giles shed light on how he became a TV broadcaster and why it made him a better scientist. We also discussed what’s important about communicating science and how to do it right.For more information about the podcast go to www.tshaped.org/podcast

Welcome to 'Persistent Curiosity' with Joanna Kaniewska from T Shaped. This short trailer explains what this podcast is all about. Subscribe now to be notified about future episodes so you can be the first to hear inspiring career and leadership stories from accomplished STEM professionals. Stay tuned and stay curious!For more information about the podcast go to www.tshaped.org/podcast