Maria Agustina De Rosa
Assistant Professor and Researcher - John F. Kennedy University and Fundación Instituto Leloir
“I strongly believe that the power of education and healthcare combined with transformative technologies can unlock endless possibilities for individuals and communities alike. It’s inspiring to me the fact that science shows us that the world is far more complex than we thought, and that one question leads to many more!”
Read Agustina’s full profile below
Where did you grow up?
Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Who was your favorite teacher, and why?
My favorite teacher by far was my science teacher. She knew how to make students care about what they were learning while making classes fun and interesting. Although science has always fascinated me, her willingness to want us to learn made this course easier and more attractive for me.
What inspired you to pursue a career in STEM/Healthcare?
I think that pursuing a career in science was always in my thoughts. I felt in my heart that this was what I wanted to dedicate my whole life to. Since I was very young, I have been very attracted to biomedical sciences. Even though no one in my family was dedicated to science, I knew that this was my thing. I think that the fact of knowing that I am going to be able to contribute to do good to someone is what excites me about my decision. Nothing motivates me more than knowing that I am contributing my bit to help humanity.
What were your moments of fear/challenges in your career?
Oh! I had many of those moments! But each of them taught me something and made me the woman I am today. In those challenging moments is where you really test yourself and then, when you manage to overcome them, is when you realize how valuable you are. One of the most challenging moments of my career without a doubt was the COVID-19 pandemic. That year I was going to start my undergraduate professional practice in a real laboratory but due to the health emergency this could not be. I had to wait many months and even move to bigger city alone to be able to start them in another place. It was difficult but looking back now, that was the bravest and best thing I could’ve done. In that moment what motivated me was to fulfill my dream of being a scientist! Never give up your dreams! It may take longer, but with perseverance and commitment, everything can be achieved!
What are some of the innovations in science that you are most excited about?
There are SO many I am excited about! I think that one of the things that excites me the most is the fact that there are many therapeutic targets to be studied and worked on, which would allow us to find treatments for many pathologies. This gives me a lot of hope and motivation since many patients could fight serious diseases.
What’s next for you?/What would you like to do when you “grow up’? (retire, etc.)/ what is something you hope to accomplish in the future?
I am currently in the process of applying to a PhD program. I would love to be able to work on a project that allows me to make my contribution to science. I am highly motivated to pursue state-of-the-art biomedical research. My long-term goal is to be a university professor and researcher. I love science but I also love working with people, and my ideal career would involve both! I would love being part of a work team where I can add value from my experience and qualities and, at the same time, achieve personal and professional development.
What is your unique talent? (can be something quirky)
I love making pottery! I have in my house many cups, pots, plates, all made by me, and I love to use them when my friends came to visit me! I think that this activity relaxes me a lot and makes me think about the present.
Personal style/fashion tip?
I really like neutral colors. I am simple and classic. I like to add gold or pearl accessories for an elegant touch from time to time. My fashion tip for research students is to dress comfortably but stylishly! It ́s important to be you! When I had my first intern experience in a lab, I bought a light blue scrub that was very comfy and cute.
Current book/book you love?
Reading is a big hobby of mine. My favorite books are biographies and autobiographies. I love learning about other people ́s experiences because that inspires me a lot. It ́s very passionate for me reading about how other people overcome difficult situations in their lives and how they gain strength to reach their goals. I try to choose books that teach me values. I‘m currently reading Lessons learned: Stories from Women Leaders in STEM by Deborah M. Shlian. Each chapter of this book highlights a different woman ́s life story and the roadblocks they overcame. The women in this book are leaders in many different STEM disciplines and in many different sectors including academia, industry, and government institutions. I find these stories so inspiring and reading this book made me remember we are all going through the same struggles! A must read for any in considering a STEM career, you are not alone!
