I am beyond happy to have a career where I can contribute to human knowledge and society: my research focuses on the diverse ways that the interaction of light and matter (spectroscopy) can assist disease diagnosis. The combination of physics and medicine allows me to approach clinical problems from different aspects and apply my expertise to what I am most passionate about: human health.

I am a postdoctoral research fellow at the National Hellenic Research Foundation, where my daily routine consists of conducting experiments in the lab, analyzing data, supervising students, publishing, and writing research grants. I am also an academic teaching fellow in a physics department, teaching undergraduates.

I hold a keen interest in mentoring students and young scientists, and work to improve female visibility in science through various organizations (YWCA, Greek Women in STEM). I am also involved with R.E.A.L. Science, a networking platform which connects STEM scientists with schools, providing students with career advice and inspiration.

Coming from a small Greek island, studying and working abroad was an unfamiliar path. It took a long time and effort to be able to pursue a PhD in physics and work in research institutions around the world, and I am proud that I made it through. However, I consider the greatest accomplishment in one’s career to be the impact you make on other people’s lives. If I have managed to make a positive impact even in one mentee’s or student’s life over the past 15 years, then I consider this to be my biggest success.

Changing research fields combined with imposter syndrome have been the biggest challenges. Pursuing a PhD in physics despite my background in pharmaceutical sciences was particularly challenging; maintaining my motivation, even when things were going wrong research- and funding-wise, was crucial.

Imposter syndrome is something most of us struggle with. Two things helped: hard work and my network. Hard work acts as a safety net because when you do your best, it’s harder to blame yourself for failure; talking to your network provides a realistic perspective.

The thing to consider if you are interested in a career in STEM is how much you want it. Initiate and maintain contact with scientists you find inspiring or look up to. (It is surprising how eager people are to help when they are asked.) In turn, don’t forget to be honest and kind when given the chance.

Martha Vardaki
Postdoctoral/Academic Research Fellow, Institute of Chemical Biology, National Hellenic Research Foundation
Born in Greece / Resides in Greece
Educational Background: BSc and MSc in Pharmacy, University of Patras, Greece; PhD in Biomedical Physics, University of Exeter, United Kingdom