Her Story
About Marta
Marta Porniece serves as principal scientist in translational medicine at Genentech, where she focuses on obesity translational research and develops projects within the company. She has been active in the field of neuroendocrine regulation and metabolism since starting her PhD in 2017. Her main area of expertise is neuroscience and metabolism, particularly how the brain regulates food intake, energy homeostasis, and systemic metabolism. Prior to her current role, she completed a postdoc in the Harvard neurobiology department. She earned her bachelor's in applied biology, followed by a master's in neuroscience from the University of Bonn, and a PhD in neurometabolism. She also completed a mini MBA at Harvard in 2024. Marta is a member of the Obesity Society and Max Planck alumni. During her time in Germany, she served as spokesperson for the PhD union from the Max Planck Society and later for the postdocnet, representing postdocs and gaining leadership experience through voluntary work with the community.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Marta
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to trust from my leaders and my own persistence and competitive sports background. I know how to train hard and work hard, and nothing is given to me. I am accountable and responsible for delivering results without relying on others to do it for me.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
If you are really good at what you do and have done your homework like education, papers, and activities, the right company will appreciate it. Keep good communications with former advisors and bosses. Leave places in good terms when moving on.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Opportunities are exciting with new obesity drugs and being at the right time with the right experience. Challenges include the fast-moving industry where strategies can become outdated quickly due to new technologies like AI, and adjusting to the speed of projects.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Accountability and persistence are most important. I take my work seriously, carry responsibilities to the end, and am persistent in achieving goals even under pressure, as shown when completing a strategy plan quickly.
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