Professor Deborah Dunn-Walters is a BSI Trustee and Professor of Immunology at the University of Surrey, UK.
Why did you choose a career in science?
I have always had a lot of questions and biological systems are awesome. I love the way that science builds on previous discoveries, so you feel like part of a huge international community dedicated to understanding the rules of life.
What’s your current research focus?
Understanding the development of B cells and B cell repertoires during an immune response. Working across disciplines (bioinformatics, bioengineering) to understand what factors affect B cell development and class switching, how better to measure quality of immunity and what are the key failings in immunity with age.
What’s your favourite part of your job?
Bouncing ideas about. I love it when an idea comes together, especially when it is something that several people can work together on. Discussing ideas (in lab meetings, in conferences, in workshops) forming a plan, seeing the results and celebrating each other’s successes.
Why is gender equity in science important to you?
Diversity is important in all things. We need diverse approaches, opinions, and points of view. One type of person swimming with the tide, alongside others with the same way of experiencing the world, has limited opportunities for insight and innovation compared to having people with different views, taking different pathways through the currents. Everyone who wants to be a scientist should not be prevented from doing so by something as irrelevant as gender.
What would you say to women and girls who are looking to have a career in science?
Absolutely go for it. Your working life is a long one so you should enjoy it, and science is never boring. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from mentors, friends and cheerleaders. When your turn comes, reach around to do some cheerleading yourself.