Women in Biotech: By Choice and By Calling
Why they chose this work—and the purpose they’ve found in it
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This Women’s History Month, we’re spotlighting four women from AES who represent the many paths into biotech careers—and the shared sense of purpose that keeps them here.
At AES, we’re proud to highlight the diverse voices and perspectives that make up our global biotech talent. From engineering and automation to project management and marketing, these women in life sciences lead with clarity, creativity, and a deep commitment to impact.
Some didn’t set out to work in biotechnology. Others were drawn in by the challenge of solving complex problems or the opportunity to contribute to life-changing innovations. But all of them have found purpose in their work and are helping shape the future of science.
We asked:
“What inspired you to pursue a career in your field, and what has been the most rewarding part of working in biotech?”
Here’s what they shared:
Emily Carson
Global Service Manager - London, England
“I didn’t set out to work in biotech—or even in service, really. I just kept gravitating toward roles where I could lean into creative problem solving, servant leadership, and, most importantly, a good challenge. I’ve always been drawn to that space between chaos and clarity; the alchemical process of turning problems into solutions.
Eventually, that led me to a high-stakes role where I’m responsible for the success of dozens of bioreactors, cell manipulators, and other biotech equipment globally, and the satisfaction of the large pharma clients who rely on them.”
Tejal Kharde
Senior Automation Engineer - California, USA
“From a handful of cells to life-saving therapies – that’s the magic of biopharma. Since my first project in biopharma automation there was always something that kept me going – manufacturing processes, controls surrounding the equipment, product processing, meeting people from diverse backgrounds and the list goes on! This dynamic and ever-evolving nature of biotechnology projects inspired my career in life sciences.
I thrive on learning new and varied biotech processes. My experience includes optimizing production for various therapies: vaccines and medications, trial medications for life-threatening diseases, veterinary medications. The most rewarding aspect of my role is contributing to the production of life-enhancing therapies through process automation.”
Anca Vacar
Principal Project Manager - Zofingen, Switzerland
“I began my career in life sciences manufacturing and biotechnology a few years ago and quickly realized the tremendous opportunities it offers for learning and development. Although biotechnology isn’t usually taught alongside subjects like math and physics, its impact on human life has been significant for decades.
Beyond the cutting-edge technology it utilizes, what inspires me most is the dedication of everyone involved and the meaningful difference they make in delivering safe and effective medicines to those in need.”
Amelia Barth
Senior Marketing Manager - Alaska, USA
“I was drawn to marketing during an internship where I realized how much I loved crafting messaging that could influence decisions and drive business results. Growing up, I was always researching products and analyzing what made people choose one product over another, and that curiosity stuck with me into adulthood.
Now, working in biotech, the most rewarding part is translating complex solutions into clear value for our clients. I love partnering with sales and engineering to shape messaging that helps our clients bring life-saving therapies to market. It’s creative, strategic, and rooted in real-world impact.”
At AES, we believe that celebrating women in biotech means more than honouring their titles—it’s about amplifying their stories. These team members exemplify what it means to lead in a dynamic, fast-moving field like life sciences. Their journeys are a testament to the power of passion, persistence, and purpose.
This Women’s History Month, we recognize not just the contributions of women across the STEM fields, but the future they’re helping create in biotech and life sciences industries.