International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2024

To celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we are featuring profiles from a cross section of the Mast Group team.

Organised by the United Nations, the day promotes the need for full and equal access to, and participation in, science for women and girls.

Here, six of our team share their experiences of working at Mast Group, exampling careers ranging from Research and Development to Human Resources and Finance. We hope that this will inspire girls and young women to pursue education and careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects.

Carmel Aldridge, Product Manager for AST, AMR and POC

What lead you to your career at Mast?

I was interested in science at school and studied Microbiology and Biochemistry at Liverpool John Moore’s University. When I started my career with Mast Group Ltd, it was as a Microbiologist in R&D where I worked on developing new products including those for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) detection. 

How has your career in science developed?

My role changed to a technical/commercial role, specialising in one of Mast’s core ranges - Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing (AST) and AMR diagnostics. Today, I support OC Sensor – the world’s no.1 FIT test, aiding early bowel cancer detection!

I am also a committee member of the British Society of Microbial Technology (BSMT) where we promote the sharing of best practice in clinical microbiology by organising an annual scientific conference.

What advice would you give to women and girls considering a career in science?

My advice would be to surround yourself with like-minded people who can support you in and out of scientific life.

Emily George, Product Specialist for Faecal Immunochemical Tests (FIT)

What lead you to your career at Mast?

I have always loved science but when I began my degree in Biomedical Science, I can admit that I didn’t really understand what a Biomedical Scientist was or the role they played in healthcare. It was through my placement in a busy NHS lab that I really fell in love with Microbiology, but I also discovered that there were career opportunities outside the NHS for Biomedical Scientists, especially if you live in rural North Wales!

How has your career developed?

I started my career in a private lab that produced frozen semen straws for the artificial insemination of cows, a niche and interesting environment combining lab skills with mass production. I joined Mast shortly afterwards in a commercial role as a sales representative which centred around relationships with those fabulous BMSs working in a variety of labs. I have progressed to becoming a product specialist which allows me to be at the forefront of changes to patient pathways, clinical guidelines, and new research alongside being creative in promoting FIT whilst maintaining valuable relationships with our customers.

What advice would you give to women and girls considering a career in science?

Approach every new experience as an opportunity to learn something, perhaps a new skill or application or even something about yourself. You are capable of more than you can imagine!

Emily Davies, Senior Scientist, R&D

What lead you to your career at Mast?

I did my undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences at the University of Liverpool. I loved the microbiology aspect of my degree, so I applied for funding to do a PhD and spent the next few years researching bacterial infections in Cystic Fibrosis. After graduation, I was keen to move to industry and so began my career at Mast.

How has your career developed?

Today, I am now a Senior Scientist within the Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) section of Research and Development at Mast Group. Antimicrobial resistance is one of the biggest challenges facing human health, so part of my role is developing products that can detect antimicrobial resistance in bacteria.

What advice would you give to women and girls considering a career in science?

My advice to anyone considering a career in science would be that there is a role to suit everyone. Science is not just working in a laboratory - there is such a huge diversity of jobs out there, so it’s always possible to find something that you love.

Manisha Khattri, Instrument Support Specialist
 

What lead you to your career at Mast?

My name is Manisha Khattri. I come from the foothills of Himalayas in the small city of Siliguri, located in the state of West Bengal, India.

My father nurtured in me the love for science. His guidance led me to pursue a career in science. Combining this passion with desire for personal growth, I actively sought for opportunities beyond India. My motivation was fuelled by the curiosity to experience diverse cultures, connect with people from around the world and study in renowned institutions. Upon completing my Masters in Medical Microbiology at the University of Surrey, I explored various job opportunities within health care sector. Eventually, I found my way into MAST, where I contribute my skills and expertise.

What does your role involve?

I work as Instrument Support Specialist. My role involves providing technical and application support for all MAST Instrumentation to customers in the UK and Internationally.

What advice would you give to women and girls considering a career in science?

My advice to young women and girls aspiring for a career in science is to take every opportunity as a path for continuous learning. Persist through challenges and do not be discouraged by stereotypes. Stay curious and fearless.

Christine Moran, UK Credit Controller and Payroll Clerk
 

What lead you to your career at Mast?

Working in finance means that you have a direct, positive impact on the growth and success of the business. My role is varied across the entire finance department. It also requires me to communicate with multiple teams in the organisation, from our Customer Service team to HR and Despatch teams to ensure a smooth flow of internal duties which affect the finance function.

How has your career developed?

I work day-to-day with our finance team and with the Head of Finance, completing required finance reports on time and to a high standard, and I also work with our customers directly resolving any queries.

Undertaking professional training whilst working means that I am AAT Level 3 qualified and currently working to be fully AAT qualified by this summer.

What advice would you give to women and girls considering a career in science?

Find your passion! Mine is finance, which is why I continue to develop my skills, experience, and qualifications!

Demee Oliver, HR Advisor
 

What lead you to your career at Mast?

I have worked in the HR industry for 6 years, starting as an apprentice. I joined Mast in January 2023 as I was extremely interested in what they do and being more exposed to the science elements of the business.

How has your career developed?

Since my apprenticeship I have continued to study. I’m now looking to study my CIPD Level 7, after completing my Level 3 and Level 5. I have been exposed to working with employees with many job titles over my years and have enjoyed every second! It is great to be a woman in a business like this and I think my role shows how different careers can contribute and support the science industry in many ways.

What advice would you give to women and girls considering a career in science?

My advice to any girls or young women looking for their future careers would be to find what you enjoy, something that makes you want to get up in the morning and go for it. You’re capable of anything you put your mind to!