Women in Science - SCIEX Rebekah Sayers' on encouraging curiosity

Find out all about her intriguing journey to where she is now in her role as marketing manager within small molecule omics at SCIEX. 

Could you give us an overview of your work?​

One of the things I love about my job is the fast paced and dynamic environment, every day is different and brings with it new challenges. Having joined SCIEX from academia I wanted to use my experience and continue to fulfill my curiosity and love of learning. As part of the support team, and the application lead in EMEAI, I was able to further my analytical skills in mass spectrometry and better understand the life science research market and the needs of our customers. My current role is pivotal in bridging the gap between scientific innovation and market demand, ensuring that products and workflows not only meet the needs of the market but also stand out in a competitive landscape.

When did you realize you were interested in science - as a young child, teen, or older?​

Growing up, my father, played a pivotal role in nurturing my interest in science. His passion for problem-solving and innovation was evident in everything he did, from the complex projects he worked on to the way he explained everyday phenomena. He encouraged my curiosity by involving me in his work, patiently answering my endless questions, and introducing me to captivating scientific concepts through fun experiments and hands-on activities. Whether it was building model rockets, exploring the mechanics of household appliances, or visiting science museums, he always found ways to make learning an exciting adventure. His unwavering support and enthusiasm for discovery inspired me to pursue my own path in the world of science, instilling a lifelong love for exploration and understanding.

Now, as a parent myself, I strive to pass down the same passion and curiosity to my son. I see the same inquisitive spark in his eyes that my father once saw in mine. Together, we embark on our own scientific adventures, from constructing intricate Lego structures, or more recently, exploring simple chemistry experiments at a SCIEX mini scientist day . I take immense joy in answering his questions and guiding him through the wonders of the natural world, just as my father did for me. Witnessing his excitement and seeing his understanding grow reminds me of my own childhood experiences and reinforces the importance of fostering a love for learning. Through these shared moments, I hope to inspire him to explore, question, and discover, laying the foundation for a lifelong journey of scientific curiosity and innovation.

Could you describe your personal journey bringing us to where you are now?​

My journey to where I am now has been anything but straightforward, marked by numerous twists and turns. A few years into my first degree, I decided to leave and travel around the world, even working at a ski resort for a time. However, my passion for science eventually drew me back, prompting me to complete my degree. My final year research project reignited my enthusiasm, and achieving a first-class honours provided the impetus I needed to pursue postdoctoral studies. I secured a funded place on the MRes Biochemical and Molecular Biophysics program at King's College London. Here, I started to develop an interest in the many different analytical techniques we can use to understand the interactions between biomolecules. It took some time to find the right PhD project; during this period, I gained valuable experience working for the NHS. Eventually, I found a PhD opportunity at the University of Manchester, focusing on the proteomics profiling of processing-induced modifications to proteins. This challenging yet rewarding experience allowed me to gain extensive knowledge and skills in mass spectrometry and develop important critical thinking and problem-solving skills. I ultimately made the decision to leave academia and industry, entering into a role at SCIEX.

What challenges did you face - as a woman or otherwise - along the way and what is the most valuable lesson you have learned?​

I think women in STEM are still underrepresented in many fields, particularly more senior roles or faculty positions. This can often mean there is a shortage of female role models and mentors in STEM, which is crucial for career guidance and support. I have been lucky in my career so far that I have never felt a lack of support whether my supervisor/manager has been male or female. The hardest challenge I found as a women was becoming a mum, struggling with the idea of being able to have both, a baby and a career, without feeling inadequate in either. I found outside of my workplace there was an element of gender stereotyping and some more traditional values which are assumed, and if you don’t adhere to these then you are somehow a bad mother. In fact, becoming a mother has made me more ambitious and I have developed new skills which will enhance and benefit both my family and my career. My advice to other women seeking a role in STEM is to value the importance of perseverance and resilience, build a supportive network, find a mentor, your unique perspective as a woman in science is valuable and can contribute greatly to the field. Help promote diversity and inclusion within your organization so you can help create a more supportive environment for future generations.

What ignites your passion in your current role?​

Moving into a strategic marketing role has enabled me to use my scientific knowledge to influence a wider audience, by helping to communicate the importance and benefits of scientific products or innovations to the scientific community. I have a passion for translating science to real-world applications through storytelling and strategic thinking. I have been fortunate to build a rewarding career where I am able to leverage these strengths in a way that complements my scientific background in a dynamic and collaborative environment.

What is your current work ethos/style?​

I believe a robust work ethos is paramount for driving success and innovation both individually and as part of a team. I am committed to achieving excellence, constantly seeking to refine strategies and deliver impactful results. Collaboration is really important, working with cross-functional teams—including product development, sales, and communications.

Ultimately, a passion for learning and a proactive approach to problem-solving define my work ethos, enabling me to thrive in global strategic marketing. This approach ensures that every campaign has the potential to ignite excitement and drive scientific and technological progress worldwide.

Could you share some advice for young women starting to develop an interest in science or wanting to pursue a career like yours?​

Science is often a collaborative effort, network and build relationships with peers and professionals as these can lead to valuable opportunities and insights. In particular, you should look for women in science who inspire you. Having mentors can provide guidance, support, and valuable insights into navigating your career path. I was lucky to be surrounded by several strong confident women in science during my PhD who inspired educated and played an important role in my development. Let your natural curiosity guide you. Don’t be afraid to explore different areas of science to find what truly excites you. The same goes for getting experience of different workflows and techniques, take every opportunity to expand your knowledge, science is ever evolving. Stay curious and committed to lifelong learning to keep up with new discoveries and advancements.