Ulrika Qundos, Group Leader protein technologies, at Atlas Antibodies
Could you start by telling me about your role?
Ulrika: I’m the group manager for Protein Technologies within R&D, where I make sure we focus on and deliver the goals we have as an organization in terms of product development. We use multiple different methods to focus on protein analysis and quantification.
When I work, I think about how we are addressing the purpose of advancing medicine and research by developing tools for protein analysis and also the well-being of my group.
I mainly look at the future of the company, and I focus on growth and vision. One way to do that is to help to develop our heavy isotope-labeled MS standards for protein quantification or our monoclonal antibodies for neuroinflammation research.
Tell me a bit about your background; how did you get into this role?
Ulrika: I was born and raised in the Human Protein Atlas project! It is where I did my master’s thesis and, directly after that, my Ph.D. As a result, I learn to perform research in a very collaborative and knowledge-driven project.
I joined Atlas Antibodies in 2017 after heading the autoimmunity profiling research facility at SciLifeLab to work on a new application of our antibodies.
For the first year, I worked as a research scientist; then I came back from maternity leave as a group leader. The work culture here is great as we have very knowledgeable colleagues we can lean on, and everyone is working towards the same goals for progress.
As a woman in science, have you experienced any gender-based barriers or biases in your career?
Ulrika: In my career, I have had the privilege of working with and taking inspiration from successful women. Unfortunately, although things are quite equal, we still see more senior levels going to men.
I think this is partly due to the preference, need, or expectation for many women to spend more time at home with young children. Meanwhile, men build their careers, so they advance more quickly. For me, the family and life balance can be difficult. At Atlas Antibodies, my manager is also female.
What advice would you give to other women and girls in science to help them in their careers?
Ulrika: Find the thing that motivates you as an individual and chase them! Even though it is challenging and a challenge I am experiencing right now, you should take the time to have a balanced family and home life if you want to. I think if more women demand this, then things can improve. I would also advise you never to feel afraid to ask the questions you want to ask, small or large.