About the Guest

Dr. Munazza Imran is a distinguished alumna of ANU, bringing forth more than two decades of invaluable experience in Life Sciences, which includes an extensive background in education. She previously served as an Assistant Professor specializing in microbiology at a public sector university in her native country Pakistan, where she shared her knowledge and expertise with the next generation.

In 2014 Dr. Munazza won two very prestigious scholarships to fully fund her doctoral studies at the Australian National University (ANU). She started her PhD with two little girls (1 year old and 5 years old) as an international student. During her academic journey at ANU, Dr. Imran pursued her passion for research as a PhD scholar and contributed as a casual Sessional academic at the Research School of Biology. Her doctoral studies focused on the fascinating realm of molecular microbiology.

Following the successful completion of her doctorate, she ventured into the corporate world, taking on the role of Account Manager - Academia and Research for a prominent American multinational scientific organization (Thermo Fisher Scientific). In this capacity, she furthered her engagement with the scientific community and fostered collaborations between academia and industry.

Presently, Dr. Imran working as a Scientific Operation Officer at Laboratory Business Operations Section at Therapeutic Drugs Administration (TGA), Canberra. She also dedicates her time as a diligent reviewer of scientific manuscripts within her field, adding her critical insights to the ever-evolving body of scientific knowledge. In her cherished moments of leisure, she enjoys quality time with her family in the vibrant city of Canberra.

Dr. Munazza Imran's rich and diverse journey through academia, research, and industry has greatly enriched both her own professional growth and the broader scientific community.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Dr. Munazza Imran shares her inspiring journey from academia to industry and then into government service. Despite facing challenges, such as societal expectations and financial hardships, she emphasizes the importance of perseverance and not giving up on one's dreams. Dr. Imran's story serves as a testament to overcoming obstacles and pursuing a fulfilling career in STEM.

Dr. Imran discusses her experiences in academia, industry, and government, highlighting the impact she has had in each sector and her dedication to serving humanity through her work. Her insights on balancing career growth, family responsibilities, and personal goals provide valuable lessons for women in STEM facing similar challenges.

Key Takeaways

• Dr. Imran's passion for serving humanity through her research and career choices is evident in her dedication to making a positive impact in the field of life sciences.
• She encourages women in STEM to be resilient, pursue opportunities, and not be deterred by failures, but to view them as learning experiences on the path to success.
• It is important to not give up on one's dreams and continuously striving for personal and professional growth.

Find Out More

• Connect with Dr Munazza Imran on LinkedIn and ANU Kintell.

*Season 2 of CALD Voices in STEM was made possible by YWCA Canberra Great Ydeas Small Grants program.*

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