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Thushani Siriwardhane
Clinical Affairs Scientist,
Agilent Technologies Inc.
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STEM is not just one area. It has no boundaries. It can be combined with anything and everything.
WHAT DO YOU DO?
My main job role is to provide scientific expertise to develop and execute clinical studies and research for in-vitro diagnostics (IVDs), especially Companion Diagnostics (CDx) for Cancer.
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THIS FIELD?
When I moved from my post-doctoral position to the clinical research role, it opened up a new world of possibilities. I wanted to pursue my career in clinical research because it's not only an interesting and varied job, but also essential to healthcare systems across the world and one that I could directly impact to improve the lives of patients.
WHAT DO YOU LOOK AT & THINK, "I WISH YOUNGER ME WOULD HAVE KNOWN THIS WAS POSSIBLE?"
I wish I had involved in the regulatory work when I was doing my PhD and post-doctoral work. Most of the IRBs and clinical regulatory work involved in our projects was done by the university regulatory team, so If I knew back then, I would have shadowed them to learn the regulatory aspects of clinical studies while doing my PhD and post-doctoral work.
WHY DO YOU LOVE WORKING IN STEM?
The innovative technologies result in STEM research helps to improve the lives of patients and my motivation is knowing that I can make a difference in people’s lives.
BEST ADVICE FOR NEXT GENERATION?
STEM is not just one area. It has no boundaries. It can be combined with anything and everything. It's all trial and error. Experiment until you find the STEM path that makes you feel great and proud to work. Once you find it, expand your scope. Learn how you can combine new technologies to make lives better.
INSPO / FUN FACT
"If opportunity doesn't knock, build a door"