Nobody Told Me Operations Was a Job: A Scientist’s Career Pivot
September 14 @ 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
In this inspiring career talk, Dr Axelle Caudrillier shares her journey from academic research into the world of clinical and genomic operations, and back to academia in a leadership role managing the operations behind a major research programme.
After earning a PhD in biology and spending more than a decade in academic research, including positions at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and the University of Edinburgh, Axelle discovered an alternative STEM career path that few researchers are ever told about. Her experience across biotech and genomics companies opened the door to a career in operations, helping to bridge science, strategy, and delivery.
Through her story, Axelle will explore what operations roles involve, how scientists can transfer their skills beyond the lab, and why creating your own career path can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Whether you’re considering your next career move, curious about non-traditional STEM careers, or looking for inspiration from someone who successfully navigated multiple career transitions, this session will offer valuable insights and practical advice.
About the speaker
Dr Axelle Caudrillier holds a PhD in biology and spent over a decade in academic research, including a postdoctoral position at UCSF and a Senior Scientist role at the University of Edinburgh. She later moved into clinical and genomic operations roles across biotech and genomics companies before returning to academia. She now works as Science Manager at the University of Edinburgh, leading operations for a major research programme, and volunteers with Equate Scotland.
