Her Story
About Dr. Reena
Dr. Reena Sharma serves as Director and Lead Scientist in a Research and Development company, leading projects that develop RNA-based solutions to target agricultural pests without harming the environment or soil. She earned her Bachelor's in Biotechnology Honors, studying subjects including biochemistry, microbiology, and recombinant technologies, followed by a PhD from Taiwan in Japan after publishing in a high-impact journal, an accomplishment achieved despite coming from a background where women's education was not prioritized. She has multiple first-author publications and book chapters in reputed journals and now resides in the United States. Beyond her scientific work, Dr. Sharma is also an actor who runs a dancing school, teaches dance, prepares for performances, and travels for auditions while maintaining a fitness routine of running and yoga. She attributes her success to her father's support in breaking barriers for women's education, her own resilience and stubbornness, spirituality, and timely support from others she has met.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dr. Reena
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the support of my father who broke barriers for women's education in our background, my resilience and stubbornness to achieve goals, spirituality and a higher power guiding me, and support from people who crossed my path at the right time.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
One of my professors asked me what I really want to be in life when I started my PhD, and my answer that I want to become Dr. Reena Sharma designated as an actor led to self-realization that I know what I want and I am on the right path.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Never give up no matter the challenges or criticism. Know your worth, be true to yourself, do not consider there is only one career path, and never let your passion vanish with time as it is the energy and fuel for your life.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
There is no shortage of opportunities but finding the right opportunity and guidance is challenging, such as getting through multiple interview rounds, finding the right lab or guide for PhD, and navigating job markets without proper support, requiring personal responsibility and networking.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I value offering help to others without expecting anything in return, not compromising on self-worth, not arguing back for everything as time will speak louder, respecting everybody, and living by the policy of live and let live.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.