In celebration of International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we hear from two members of the UCLTF team, Leigh Brody and Sara Watson to find out what makes their roles unique and what led them towards a career in bioscience investment.
Taking place on Sunday 11th February, International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrates the achievement of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) roles.
Sara Watson, Analyst, UCLTF
Tell us about your role.
Having completed several internships with the UCL Technology Fund (UCLTF) I’m quite new to my current role as an Investment Analyst. UCLTF invests in IP commercialisation opportunities arising from UCL’s research base, and I help the life sciences team evaluate the phenomenal work that is coming out of UCL, with the goal of helping to translate this research into transformative therapies.
Why did you choose to work at the intersection of life science and venture capital industry?
During my PhD at UCL I had the opportunity to explore life science venture capital during an internship with UCLTF, and during those three months something just clicked. I’m driven by the fact that I can contribute to bridging the gap between scientific innovation and real-world applications. Academic institutions, like UCL, are fantastic incubators for groundbreaking ideas and, as a seed stage fund, with boots on the ground, we get to help foster the growth of these entrepreneurs and technologies.
What areas within TechBio/cell and gene therapy are you currently most excited about?
I’m obviously really excited about the advancements of UCLTF portfolio companies like Bloomsbury Genetic Therapies and NovalGen. I think that the therapies that these companies are building have such fantastic potential for patients.
Having done a PhD at UCL at the intersection of stem cell biology and mechanical engineering, I’m particularly interested seeing the progression of truly interdisciplinary TechBio projects. Different departments and sectors of science have been siloed for such a long time, and with the advancements in areas such as nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, not to mention GenAI, I think we’re finally reaching a new age of truly collaborative science.
What do you consider the most important factors in building a great relationship between an investor and a founder?
As in all relationships, I think that effective communication is fundamental in building strong investor-founder relationships. Transparency, honesty, active listening, and a willingness to provide and receive constructive feedback are crucial for fostering trust and aligning expectations. Clear communication channels will help navigate uncertainties and ensure resilience in the face of challenges.
Are there any female scientists that you looked up to when you were younger?
When I was younger, I heard a talk by Dr. Sylvia Earle, the first woman to be appointed as Chief Scientist of NOAA, at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. I had a passion for marine biology, but was also very shy. When Dr. Earle opened the floor for questions, to everyone’s surprise, my hand shot up. Even as an adult, who still struggles with public speaking, I take pride in the memory of little 7-year-old Sara, bravely standing in front of a packed auditorium, driven by her thirst for knowledge.
In following that thirst, I continue to draw inspiration from remarkable scientists like Dr. Earle, as well as Dr. Rosalind Franklin, Katherine Johnson, and Dr. Marie Skłodowska-Curie.
Do you have any advice for young girls aspiring to pursue a role in STEM?
Embrace the diversity within STEM fields. STEM takes many shapes – from biology to engineering, computer science to environmental science. Don’t feel constrained by preconceived notions; explore different areas to find what resonates with you.
Remember, journeys in STEM are not always linear. It’s okay if you don’t have everything figured out from the start! Be open to pivoting and discovering new interests along the way.
Above all, keep and feed your curiosity: ask questions, seek answers, and never stop learning. The most exciting discoveries often come from those who are curious and persistent. Embrace challenges, stay determined, and know that your unique perspective is always a valuable contribution to the world.
Leigh Brody, Investment Manager, UCL Technology Fund
I’m an investment manager for UCL Technology Fund, which means I spend most of my time evaluating and selecting promising translational research for investment. I conduct thorough due diligence, considering market trends and prospective financial returns. Once invested, I actively collaborate with the UCLTF team and UCLB, offering strategic guidance to contribute to their growth and success.
It allows me to be at the forefront of groundbreaking innovations. The prospect of shaping the future of biotechnology and building off my personal experience of spinning out a company from my PhD, to play a role in bringing impactful therapies to market is what drew me to this intersection.
What areas within TechBio/ cell and gene therapy are you currently most excited about?
Currently, I find the advancements in TechBio, particularly in cell and gene therapy, to be incredibly exciting. The potential for personalised medicine, the development of novel therapies for previously untreatable conditions, and the continuous evolution of cutting-edge technologies make this field a captivating space to be in. Witnessing the convergence of technology and biology holds tremendous promise for addressing unmet medical needs and revolutionising healthcare.
Building a great relationship between an investor and a founder hinges on trust, transparent communication, and shared values. Open and honest dialogue, aligned goals, and a mutual understanding of the company’s vision and strategy are essential. Additionally, a supportive and collaborative approach, where both parties are committed to navigating challenges together, fosters a strong foundation for success. Building relationships based on respect and a shared commitment to the company’s mission is paramount.
Absolutely. I was fortunate enough to work under some remarkable mentors during my undergraduate training and while at the Broad Institute, who inspired a rich appreciation of experimental work as well as thinking longer term about my career. As I’ve progressed, it’s been inspiring to see female scientists achieve success like Jennifer Doudna and Emmanuelle Charpentier pioneering the CRISPR gene editing technology.
Stay curious, persevere through challenges, and seek out mentors and role models. Embrace your passion for science and technology, and don’t be afraid to explore different disciplines within STEM. Surround yourself with a supportive community, and remember that your unique perspective and contributions are invaluable. Don’t hesitate to dream big!
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