A case of lupus in her childhood was the catalyst of Professor Joanne Blanchfield’s career in science. It was Joanne’s doctors who guided her away from a career in medicine, and towards one in research.Through her career, Joanne has worked with Indigenous Australian communities on investigating the chemistry of natural medicines, taken on a number of post-doctoral positions, including Johns Hopkins University in the United States, the Australian National University in Canberra, and now works as a Deputy Head of School in the School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences at UQ.It was after a life-threatening medical incident, Joanne realised the critical importance of building a strong, trusted network. It was a lesson in perspective, and acknowledging that even with setbacks, your career will still be there when you get back.In this conversation, Joanne talks about taking on leadership roles as early as possible in your academic journey, the importance of travel for career development, and making yourself competitive as – through your research and good academic citizenship.Donate now to support future episodes of Women in Science: www.justgiving.com/campaign/women-in-science-podcastRead more about Joanne’s research: https://scmb.uq.edu.au/profile/33/joanne-blanchfieldSeason 3 of Women in Science has been made possible with the generous support of Professor Aideen McInerney-Leo.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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