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Spotlight on Mercedes Peleteiro Olmedo
As part of our “Women in Science: Shaping the Future of Science” series, we are pleased to spotlight Mercedes Peleteiro Olmedo, the Head of the Flow Cytometry Laboratory at the CINBIO Researcher Center.
THE ANSWERS:
Motivation and Origins
“Both my parents are researchers in the marine field, and I always felt fascinated by their work. I now consider myself very fortunate and grateful for who I have become as a researcher thanks to their influence in my decision”.
Research Work and Social Impact
“? With flow cytometry we can study many different types of cells. We can analyze samples coming from the hospital in the biomedical field (for example tumoral cells), cells that come directly from the sea (phytoplankton and bacteria), but also nanoparticles or other particles in this scale like virus. In this sense, I can say I am in love with my job and could never get bored of it since everyday is different”.
Role Models and Mentorship
“I felt first attracted to science because of my parents, but my field of interest changed thanks to my Immunology teacher that introduced me in the biomedical field but also opened my mind to other areas like the 'nanoworld'".
Career Path and Gender Equality
“I try to do my best in this sense. I think that when you work in science, you need to be an open-minded person and flexible, in particular with your schedules as you know the value of some samples, for example a biopsy from a donor. But it is also very important to have time to your "after work life". Our minds need to rest from the lab in order to get to work the day after with better and more innovative ideas. I achieve this purpose by traveling".
Future Vision and Inspiration
“I have had the pleasure of have being surrounded by amazing women researchers since I was a child. They have taught me the relevance of our role in science as individuals, but what is more important, as a team. Anything works in research if you do not work as a team, sharing your achievements, your joys and your sorrows".
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