February 11th marks the International Day of Women and Girls in Science—a call to action to remove any barriers that hold women back from participating fully in science. This day is a reminder of the critical role women and girls play in scientific communities and an opportunity to shine a light on the gender gap that persists.
To celebrate this day at Marinus, we sat down with Becky Williams, Senior Clinical Trial Manager, a role in which she oversees clinical trials from start to finish, to discuss her experiences and advice to other women and girls entering the industry:
Have you faced any adversities in your career attributable to being a woman? How did you overcome these challenges?
The biggest struggle as a young Black woman is being seen as a valid professional in any setting. There are times when people look at me and assume that I have nothing to add. In those instances, I must speak up and relay the invaluable experiences that I’ve had working both with patients and pharmaceutical companies. Once I offer my professional input, it is usually well-received and inspires people to seek it out proactively in the future.
How important is it for women to lift each other up and what does that mean to you?
The support of other women is why I am here today. I have had the privilege of working with some amazing women who have been able to guide me in my career and give me the opportunity to become a valuable team member. Women advocating for other women is important because those who have come before have experiences and knowledge that can help the next generation achieve even greater. Learning from one another and valuing new perspectives leads to improved innovation for all.
What’s the most rewarding part of your career?
Knowing that as an individual I am contributing to solutions that will potentially improve lives. Doing meaningful and impactful work that could better communities is one of my goals and working at Marinus has made that goal real. The work I do gives hope to families who have very little options for their loved ones.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women / girls in this industry?
Go for it and speak up! The most important aspect of this industry is humanity. Women have a unique viewpoint in this world and that uniqueness will only add to better science. We must be our own biggest advocates. Women in the health industry speaking up for women who are patients can lead to improved equity in healthcare. The next generation’s contributions are valuable, their minds are necessary, and they have solutions. So don’t hold back!
Anything else you want to add / other lessons you want to share?
One final thought I would add for the next generation is even before you reach the heights you’ve dreamt of climbing, reach back and help someone else up. It is never too early to start mentoring and assisting others. You may find that you learn just as much as you teach!