As a key part of Citryll’s team, Catarina Antunes, Program & Communications Manager, plays a central role in driving cross‑functional projects forward while ensuring our scientific progress is communicated clearly and effectively. Her unique path – from the lab to strategy and communications – offers valuable perspective on the many ways expertise can drive impact beyond benchwork.
In today’s spotlight, Catarina reflects on her journey in science, what motivated her to pursue a career outside traditional research, and her advice for young women considering a future in STEM.
1. What motivated you to pursue a career in science?
I’ve always been curious about biology and how the human body works. Beyond that curiosity, I wanted to contribute to something with real-world relevance and meaningful impact for patients. Seeing the effects of different diseases on my family and people around me, combined with my drive to understand the science behind such conditions, strongly motivated me to pursue a scientific career.
2. How did you discover there are meaningful careers in science beyond the lab, and what myths about “leaving the bench” do you want to challenge?
Although I loved working in the lab, I realized it wasn’t the environment where I thrived most. Moving into industry helped me see how much structure, coordination, and communication matter in science, and I discovered that my strengths were better suited to connecting teams and managing projects. A common myth is that stepping away from the bench makes you “less of a scientist” or that your skills aren’t valuable outside the lab – none of this is true. While I may no longer design experiments, my scientific background is essential for understanding how our molecule at Citryll works, appreciate the potential of our ET-targeting approach, and think strategically about how this new biology could be truly revolutionary in the market.
3. What does a typical day look like for you at Citryll?
My days involve a lot of meetings, which can be challenging at times, but conversations with different departments are also one of the most interesting parts of my job, giving me a broader view of how all the pieces fit together to achieve a common goal. I work focusing on bridging scientific knowledge with strategic and operational perspectives, coordinating timelines, and ensuring cross-functional alignment, while translating scientific updates into clear communications that help us share our story meaningfully with the outside world.
4. What advice would you give to young women who want to pursue a career in science but aren’t sure they want to be researchers?
There are many paths in science beyond the lab, and you can make a meaningful impact without being at the bench every day. The industry offers a wide range of opportunities to contribute to innovation, so if lab work isn’t where your strengths lie, your skills can absolutely be applied elsewhere. Communication, coordination, and strategic thinking are essential in all science-related roles. I also encourage young women to seek out supportive mentors and to stay curious throughout their careers.