Rachel Peterson

I would say it goes way back to growing up with my parents' emphasis on education and the fact that I could do whatever I wanted to do. Then I went to a women's undergraduate college, which further solidified my empowerment and belief in myself. From there, it's been about continuing to keep your eye on the prize and work hard for what you think you can do. The support of my female friends, both in and out of the field, has also been very important. Having that community and support system has been crucial to my success.

I think one important thing is having that support network, that community, particularly other women who you can lean on, who can encourage you, who can mentor you as applicable. Believe in yourself and don't let others define or put limits on what you can do or should do. Be true to yourself and keep your end goal in mind, and believe you can do it. Having that community and support system is really important.

I think we're still trying to break into more leadership roles and have our voices heard on equal terms as the male voices. This isn't unique to biotech but is common across STEM industries in general. Science is still predominantly male in leadership roles, although we have seen more women in leadership roles in biotech. It's about continuing to push for equal representation and having women's voices heard at the leadership level.

What drives me is the ability to bring new medications to patients who need them. That's what drug discovery and biotech is all about - trying to improve the lives of patients at a bigger scale than seeing patients one-on-one in clinic. Innovation is important to me, as well as the willingness to roll up your sleeves. Collaboration, teamwork, and communication are key values in my work. In my personal life, I think it's important to remember to be grateful for what I have, even just waking up in the morning and being healthy, and being there for my grown kids and my dog.