March 8 will be the International Women's Day, an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women all around the world. HKU-Pasteur is committed to work towards a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination, that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.
A great occasion to talk to Kimberly Edwards, one of the many inspiring and hard working women here at HKU-Pasteur.
What is your educational background and training? And why did you chose to work in science?
Kimberly Edwards: I received my MSc in One Health: ecosystems, humans and animals from the Royal Veterinary College and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Prior to that, I worked as a Laboratory Technician, Data Analyst, and Data Manager at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.
I chose this line of work because it constantly presents new intellectual challenges, fosters creativity, and allows opportunities to travel and collaborate with brilliant people all over the world.
My mother, grandmother, and mother in law are all strong female scientists, and they taught me that if you are passionate about your line of work, you will develop a career that is innately rewarding.
How do you feel about the role of women in science today?
Kimberly Edwards: The work our lab conducts is highly collaborative, and although women are historically underrepresented in science, I honestly feel that as a woman, my ideas are no less valid, my voice is heard, and I regularly get the credit and recognition my work deserves. I recently became a mother to twins, so I consider myself incredibly fortunate to work in a team environment that is supportive and flexible.
What is your role at HKU-Pasteur and what projects are you working on?
Kimberly Edwards: In my current role, I serve as the Project Manager for the Pathogen Evolution Lab at HKU-Pasteur. Our lab aims to elucidate the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of rapidly evolving RNA viruses such as avian influenza, RSV, and SARS-CoV-2.
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