Jeanette Selby
What is your current role and what does a typical week look like?
I am the Senior Genomics Technician in the Genomics Facility based in SLS. A typical week is not something that happens very often, every week is different depending on the projects we have and that is what I love!
My main duties are to provide our in-house Next Generation Sequencing service, manage the administration and running of the Genomics facility and look after the outsourcing of Sanger DNA sequencing.
Which part of your role do you enjoy the most, and what are the biggest challenges?
I really enjoy being able to work with such a wide range of researchers. Getting to be part of so many different projects is fantastic. One day we could be looking at gene expression in Brassica, the next, microbial communities in soil samples. I find the biggest challenge, particularly with changes to working due to COVID, is keeping on top of emails!
Which skills help you most in being able to perform your role?
Listening and asking questions is very important. I need to understand what the goals of each project are and understand any constraints there may be on a project. Also, communication; making sure everyone has the information they need to keep up to date and informed.
How has your education or roles previous to joining Life Sciences, informed your interests, and why did you choose this career direction?
Science was my favourite subject at school and I decided that I would like to pursue this at university. I went to Sheffield to do a degree in Biochemistry and Genetics, which I really enjoyed, so knew a job in science was for me. My first role was at Leicester University as a core facility member of staff (DNA sequencing) and it was here I found that I really appreciated working to help people realise their experimental and work goals. This then led me to Warwick where I have been ever since, with my technical job evolving along the way.
What is your favourite place on campus and why?
Wellesbourne campus really is a beautiful spot. I was initially based there when I started working at Warwick and lunchtime walks in the sunshine were lovely!
What are your main interests or passions, outside of work?
I have two children so a lot of my time is spent with them; trips to the park, cycling and getting to grips with Lego Batman on the Xbox! I also love netball and play for a local ‘veterans’ team where we try our best to keep up with the kids!
Interview date June 2021