WEST Wisdom Blog

By Jo Viney, Co-founder and CSO, Pandion Therapeutics

Last summer, one of our local radio stations, WBUR, ran a feature entitled “How Boston Became 'The Best Place In The World' To Launch A Biotech Company” (WBUR, June 19^th 2017). The article described the evolution of our unique infrastructure – physical, cultural and sociological – that resulted in Boston being THE place where ideas are catalyzed and made into reality. But what does it really take to be an innovator? And what characteristics are essential to becoming a successful entrepreneur?

Topics: Events, STEM, Women, Boston, Team, Science, Career, Community, Entrepreneurship, Panel, Cambridge, Success, Women in STEM, Networking, Upcoming Events, Innovation, Biotech, Discussion, Lessons Learned, Inspiration, Support, Challenges, Leaders

You probably heard about the detection of gravitational waves a couple of years ago. You know that it was a really, really important discovery, but what exactly was it and why was it important? Come learn about it from one of the most prominent scientists in Scotland, Professor Sheila Rowan, the Chief Scientific Advisor to the Scottish government. When she is  not developing equipment for detecting cosmic gravitational waves, what does Dr. Rowan advise the Scottish government on? What are the most pressing science issues in Scotland today, how do these relate to science issues facing other parts of the world, and how did she get this appointment? Come to the WEST Rockstar breakfast on April 5^th and have an intimate conversation with Dr. Rowan. Maybe you want to know if she’s met the Queen. 

Topics: Events, STEM, Women, Tech, Science, Career, Community, Cambridge, Women in STEM, Networking, Upcoming Events, Rockstars, Breakfast

As a new mom of two and taking on a brand new role at my company, I've been asking myself these questions a lot. There are days when I feel like I've figured out a great balance, followed by others that are a complete and utter disaster where I'm dropping the ball on both work and life. Often times work and life are considered polarities, you choose or the other, but not both. 

Topics: Events, STEM, Women, Career, Community, Work Life Balance, Cambridge, Women in STEM, Networking, Upcoming Events, Balance, Polarities

Listen to the inspiring journeys of successful women and men leaders in science as they talk about their careers at the intersection of computing and biotech. They will discuss their highlights, motivations, role models, career moves, guiding principles, biggest challenges, and more. The panelists will also share their perspectives on career development for women in computing/biotech including company initiatives, best practices, and what can be done to support the development and advancement of women in the field. This is a great opportunity for you to meet and network with the movers and shakers in the local science ecosystem.

Topics: Events, STEM, Women, Career, Community, Panel, Cambridge, Success, Women in STEM, Networking, Upcoming Events, Biotech, Role Models, Computing, Challenges

It is almost March, are you keeping up with your New Year's resolutions? Are you stressed at work and don't have enough free time?  Perhaps you are on track with your goals but are hoping to find better ways to advance your career?  You may just want to break out of your own circle and expand your personal and professional network.  Have you considered working with a professional coach to accelerate your growth?

Topics: Events, STEM, Women, Career, Communication, Community, Work Life Balance, Cambridge, Coaching, Women in STEM, Networking, Upcoming Events, Relationships, Change, Influence, Insight, Confidence, Personal Branding, Strengths, Values, Support, Conflict Resolution

In this ever-evolving fast-paced world, we are faced with decision-making at every turn of our lives and career - should I consider this opportunity for promotion within the company or do I accept this new job opportunity. Not just that, we are expected to be capable of making the best decisions at the drop of a hat. The key to making better decisions whether at work or in life is to think clearly and thoroughly. However, it is easy to be consumed by overthinking and get stuck in one point of view. Through changing your focus and considering alternative viewpoints you can rethink your strategies and arrive at a better decision.

Topics: Events, STEM, Women, Science, Career, Community, Cambridge, Women in STEM, Networking, Upcoming Events, Decision Making, Focus, Insight, Author Chat, Confidence, Problem Solving

For many of us, negotiating our compensation package with a potential new employer can be a scary experience. In fact, almost 20% never negotiate their salaries. Fear and lack of confidence are the main reasons for not asking your real worth. But of the people who overcome their fear and do negotiate, many end up getting a bump close to 10%. So, learning to negotiate your compensation package is an important skill to learn.

Topics: Events, STEM, Women, Financial Planning, Science, Career, Community, Cambridge, negotiation, Women in STEM, Networking, Upcoming Events, Gender Pay Gap, Stock, Compensation

Ever wonder how the board room is different from the executive room, including what is needed to get there?   Cissy Young   at Executive Recruiting firm Russell Reynolds will share her insights and experience on board and executive recruiting. This intimate, WEST members only Q&A breakfast will help unveil the basics and the nuances of getting to the boardroom.

Topics: Events, Leadership, STEM, Women, Tech, Science, Career, Community, Cambridge, Success, Women in STEM, Networking, Upcoming Events, Rockstars, Breakfast, Talent, Board of Directors

Meet some “Wonder Women” and “Super Men” at the WEST 10^th Annual Giving Back Awards!

 

For most of us, working all day and managing to get dinner on the table is heroic. For others, like Sara Nochur, working all day is a prelude to fundraising that enables young children in rural India to stay in school by providing them with homes, food, and shelter. Or for Elizabeth O’Day, it’s starting a non-profit organization that recycles electronics and uses the resale profits to build computer centers in orphanages around the world. If these sound like incredible feats, it’s because they are. And yet amazing people working in our local STEM community are doing those extraordinary things, and much more. 

Topics: Events, STEM, Women, Tech, Science, Career, Awards, Community, Giving Back, Life, Cambridge, Success, Women in STEM, Networking, Upcoming Events, Female, Balance, Making a Difference, Inspiration, Role Models, Volunteer

Fear of failure and the unknown can sabotage your life’s journey and prevent you from reaching your full potential. Through heightened self awareness and knowledge of your strengths you can take the personal responsibility of owning your life and courageously step forward out of your comfort zone.  

Topics: Events, Leadership, STEM, Women, Career, Community, Life, Resilience, Cambridge, Women in STEM, Networking, Upcoming Events, Lead, Leading Ourselves, Emotional Intelligence, Developing Your Skills, Self-Awareness, Empathy