As a world-leading life science technology innovator, MGI is continuously committed to developing genomics tools and technology to power better human health and benefit all.

In celebration of International Women's Day, we talked with a host of female employees at MGI who has been dedicated in the genomics field for many years to celebrate the achievements of women in science. We chatted with Güzin Köktürk, MGI's Senior Field Application Scientist who is based in Turkey and joined MGI in 2018, to share her point of view on how it feels like for women in Genomics and to seek her advice for women considering a similar road.

Could you give a brief introduction of yourself and how did you get into the field of genomics?

Güzin: As my father was a microbiology doctor, I can say that I grew up in hospitals since I was a child. So, I knew that I would choose a major in the field of health. After graduating from the genetics and bioengineering department of the university, my professional life in the genomic field started.

Could you tell us more about your current research/work?

Güzin: I am Field Application Scientist (FAS). Although my job is mostly in the form of device installation, product training, problem solving or any technical support to our customers, I also provide pre-sales information support about new products produced by our company's advanced technology.

Why genome sciences intrigued you so much, what’s the most exciting part?

Güzin: Science has been a mysterious adventure for centuries for human beings. No matter which creature you deal with, you can only explore the mystery of its creation by understanding what it really is. Genome analysis makes the invisible things visible. You will obtain concrete results from the soft information you have. Thanks to new technologies, it’s exciting to see what we can't see each day.

Genomics has always been considered to be a male-dominated field. It would not have been easy to start a career in this industry. What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?

Güzin: I think it is not just genomics, we see mostly male dominance in working life. People think that working life is suitable for men and housework is suitable for women. But the irony is that chefs in restaurants are mostly men. Regardless of the sector, women can fulfill their duties as much as men and might even do better than them. Because of my curiosity about devices, I was rejected many times in my job interviews where I applied for technical service, on the grounds that 'it is not a job suitable for women'. I did not lose hope because I knew what I wanted. I also found a job opportunity at MGI that went beyond what I expected. My advice to all women is to determine what they want and never give up.

Do you feel that your gender gives you a different perspective and experience from your male counterparts? Any advantages?

Güzin: Definitely yes, I'm not saying women are better than man, however, I believe women are more detail-oriented than men, which allows us to get near perfect results. Besides, we are more emotional than them, and it may be thought of as a negative trait by people, but I think it brings out the ability to empathize. If we think that the most important thing between people is communication, this feature allows us to better understand what the other person needs and to respond better. Meanwhile, I believe that we are more prone to multitasking by nature and good at time management in multitasking regardless of the profession.

What changes are needed, in your opinion, to improve gender equality in science? And if you have the ability to change something about how women scientists are perceived in the science community. What would that be?

Güzin: We women are actually very curious creatures. We should give more chances to women and encourage them more. I'm confident that people will be surprised to see what women can achieve. The situation has changed and improved already, but it is still perceived as a 'man dealing with science' when we call a scientist. If I could, I would give women engaged in science a title to emphasize their femininity.

Do you have any female scientist role model that you look up for and what message do you want to pass on to young women thinking about pursuing a career in genomics industry?

Güzin: It's Rosalind Franklin, who is a famous female scientist and best known for her revolutionary work in the discovery of the double helix structure of DNA. She passed away four years before her male colleagues received the Nobel Prize in 1962. Some believe that even if Franklin had lived, she would have been ignored by the committee. It means that she may not receive this award, even though she deserves it. My advice to all women is to believe in what they can do and never give up on what they want to do.

What achievements are you most proud of in the genome sciences and why do you choose to join MGI?

Güzin: With the advancement of technology every day, we learn new things that have not been discovered yet. At MGI, we can reach the whole world with our genomics philosophy for everyone. It is an honor for me to be a part of this family.

Looking ahead, what work are you most excited about at MGI?

Güzin: Working in collaboration with people you don't know from all over the world, and trying to create a better-quality life for humanity is the most exciting part of the job.

Aside your research, what else do you do for fun?

Güzin: In the troubled processes of life, there is no need to look for great things to be happy or have fun. It is very important for me that my soul rest and enjoy. Most importantly, if the people you love are still alive, spending quality time with them is priceless.