Chiara Toselli
PhD Candidate
Learn About My Career
Chiara Toselli is a PhD Candidate in Life Sciences at the University of British Columbia.
I was born/grew up in: Vancouver, BC, Canada
I now live in: Vancouver, BC, Canada
I completed my training/education at: University of Calgary and University of British Columbia
I conduct experiments and manage the day-to-day operations of the lab. This involves managing the animal facility, creating solutions, etc. I use problem solving, teamwork and communication skills daily. I use several specialized types of equipment including microscopes, centrifuges, and microinjections devices. I often engage in problem solving such as trying to understand how my data fits with the results that have already been published. In addition, I often have to optimize and alter procedures.
I make decisions by 1) identifying the problem, 2) researching what has been done to solve the problem and 3) considering all possible solutions for that decision (pros and cons). My background in STEM has definitely influenced the way I make decisions. This is certainly true for the research part of making a decision. It’s also important for identifying the limitations of the decision. I work in a lab so collaboration is important to ensure the smooth operation of the lab. I interact with colleagues in a professional and friendly manner.
During undergrad, I worked in a laboratory for the summer and I really enjoyed it. This was due to the stimulating environment as well as the excitement for potentially discovering something new.
Designing experiments would be the most exciting aspect of my career. It allows me to be creative. For example, I identify the problem (i.e. lack of knowledge of how a process works at the cellular level). I then try and find the best possible experiment that I can do to fill that knowledge gap. I also enjoying the writing aspect of experiments. This involves writing out the introduction, rationale, experimental design, and eventually the results.
My career is relevant and rewarding because my data may be used to better our clinical practices for diabetes. I think a career in diabetes research is very fulfilling given the extent of the disease in North America.
I play beach volleyball and I like to run (currently training for a marathon). I have also been involved with Let's Talk Science as well as StemCellTalks in Vancouver.
I would tell the young person to try it out! Volunteering in a lab or in a pharmaceutical company is the best way to know if science is a career you will enjoy.
What I do at work
I conduct experiments and manage the day-to-day operations of the lab. This involves managing the animal facility, creating solutions, etc. I use problem solving, teamwork and communication skills daily. I use several specialized types of equipment including microscopes, centrifuges, and microinjections devices. I often engage in problem solving such as trying to understand how my data fits with the results that have already been published. In addition, I often have to optimize and alter procedures.
I make decisions by 1) identifying the problem, 2) researching what has been done to solve the problem and 3) considering all possible solutions for that decision (pros and cons). My background in STEM has definitely influenced the way I make decisions. This is certainly true for the research part of making a decision. It’s also important for identifying the limitations of the decision. I work in a lab so collaboration is important to ensure the smooth operation of the lab. I interact with colleagues in a professional and friendly manner.
My career path is
During undergrad, I worked in a laboratory for the summer and I really enjoyed it. This was due to the stimulating environment as well as the excitement for potentially discovering something new.
I am motivated by
Designing experiments would be the most exciting aspect of my career. It allows me to be creative. For example, I identify the problem (i.e. lack of knowledge of how a process works at the cellular level). I then try and find the best possible experiment that I can do to fill that knowledge gap. I also enjoying the writing aspect of experiments. This involves writing out the introduction, rationale, experimental design, and eventually the results.
How I affect peoples’ lives
My career is relevant and rewarding because my data may be used to better our clinical practices for diabetes. I think a career in diabetes research is very fulfilling given the extent of the disease in North America.
Outside of work I
I play beach volleyball and I like to run (currently training for a marathon). I have also been involved with Let's Talk Science as well as StemCellTalks in Vancouver.
My advice to others
I would tell the young person to try it out! Volunteering in a lab or in a pharmaceutical company is the best way to know if science is a career you will enjoy.
When I was a student I enjoyed:
- Physical Education/Health
- Technology
When I was a student, I would describe myself as someone who:
- Enjoyed doing things on my own
- Liked helping people
- Organized activities for my friends
- Played on a sports team
- Enjoyed working with my hands
- Was motivated by success
- Liked being given free range to explore my ideas
- Engaged in volunteer activities
- Liked reading
- Felt great satisfaction in getting good grades
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