February 11 marks International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Last year, Donna-Lee Destouche, Head of Clinical Trial Management at Prothena, shared advice on inspiring the next generation of female leaders in STEM. Today, we’re honored to hear from Chi Johnson, Associate Director of Facilities and Environment Health & Safety (EH&S) at Prothena. Chi’s background and the journey that led her to science is unique; we hope that young women interested in STEM will feel inspired after reading her open letter below.

Hi! My name is Chi Johnson, and I’ve been a proud Prothenian since July 2013. 

To say my path to the scientific field has been unconventional would be an understatement. Many people believe you need to follow a singular, pre-determined track to ‘make it’ in the scientific world, but I want the women and girls to know that’s not true. The path to where I am today was far from linear, but I had a strong support system along that journey to help me hone my expertise and ultimately, shape who I am today.

I always hoped to become a teacher. While pursuing my teaching credentials at night, I was also working as an administrative professional for a biotech company. Before long, admin work transitioned to helping the Facilities and Environment Health & Safety (EH&S) team, and as I continued to become more involved, and take on more responsibility, I became more interested in all the biotech industry had to offer. I thrived in the fast-paced and ever-changing environment. I had the privilege of working alongside incredible mentors who encouraged me to embark on a new journey… to pursue a master’s degree in occupational health and safety.

One of the hardest challenges I faced was the significant pivot from teaching to establishing myself in the biotech field. At times, I struggled with confidence, but my mentors were integral in helping me solidify my place in the field. Learning what science had to offer, and that I could contribute to a scientific organization without working in the lab was something I never knew was possible. I was thrilled my new degree would help me make an impact behind the scenes.

Today, I’ve been at Prothena for over ten years, and the support and encouragement I have received throughout my time has been invaluable. We have a strong leadership team. I am encouraged to take courses to help further my knowledge. I am comfortable reaching out to anyone in the organization if I am in need of advice or assistance. Women are in leadership roles and serve on the board of directors. It’s inspiring.

If you are a young woman interested in STEM, know that there is so much more than just lab work. Here at Prothena, many departments play vital roles across the organization, from financial to communications to legal and more. Your career path will likely not follow a straight line. Talk to different people in your life. Your school counselor. Your parents. Your friends’ parents. What do they do? Do they have any connections to STEM? Can they help you secure an internship, or do they know of any clubs that might pique your interest?

You never know who you will meet or what opportunity will fall into your lap unless you say yes. “Yes” might not take you exactly where you originally envisioned yourself, but by taking chances, we meet people. We learn things. We find mentors. And eventually, we find our passion. We find what fills our cup. Know that you can make a difference in the world of science, and nothing is holding you back.