Ep 76: A Bond of Purpose from Academia to Industry - The Work

We Love Science

In the final episode of our Academia to Industry series, we sit down with Dr. Christine Vazquez, a viral immunologist and Principal Scientist at GSK, to explore what it really means to make science work for patients. With humor, warmth, and sharp insight, Christine walks us through her deeply personal journey—from the tragic loss of her father to sepsis, to finding purpose in virology and infectious disease research.

Christine reflects on what she’s had to unlearn to succeed in industry. She also shares how she’s come to appreciate the power of using her scientific training to pivot, adapt, and make a real difference in people's lives.

Tune in to learn more about:

• How rotations in grad school changed her focus from bacterial to viral pathogens
• How to recognize and transfer the skills you’ve built, even when the language around them changes
• The realities (and myths!) of publishing, mentorship, and impact in industry science
• Why your project doesn’t define your worth as a scientist

Reach out to Christine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-vazquez

If you enjoyed this episode you'll also enjoy:

1. Ep 60: The Love Language of Organic Chemistry - The Work
2. Ep 64: Finding Your Fit: How to Navigate the Transition from Academia to Industry – The Work

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Reach out to Fatu:
www.linkedin.com/in/fatubm
Instagram: @thee_fatu_b
and [email protected]

Reach out to Shekerah:
www.linkedin.com/in/shekerah-primus
and [email protected]

Music from Pixabay: Future Artificial Intelligence Technology 130 by TimMoor
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