I don't think there has ever be one moment when I decided this was the career path for me, it has all been incremental decisions based on how much I enjoyed what I was doing. At school, I always enjoyed science, I was interested in how things worked and liked that we could explain the things I could see around me (I also liked that I didn't have to learn any dates or write any long essays!). I had an incredible A level chemistry teacher who really changed my perception of scientists strong female role models. I chose my degree course based on the two A levels I enjoyed most, Biology + Chemistry = Biochemistry! I chose my undergraduate university based entirely on where I felt most at home, and this was one of the most defining decisions. Through researching and choosing elective courses, I discovered that I liked the study of disease and the immune system. I took a year out working in an academic lab as a sandwich student placement and really enjoyed doing the actual research rather than reading about it! So why stop there - a PhD it was! My parents are highly educated, and scientific, but I am the first person who is actively pursuing a research career. Two key female role models in my life are my A level chemistry teacher and the Post-Doc who supported me in my sandwich placement year. Currently my role model is an amazing female Principal Investigator in my department