Linda Gijzen
This interview is part of a series of conversations with the people working at Mimetas. The 'I' in MIMETAS focuses on the personal side of the people that drive our world. Today we have a chat with Linda Gijzen, Scientific Project Lead at MIMETAS.
What is a motto you live by?
The Dutch phrase ‘’niet lullen maar poetsen’’ which translates to ‘’Don’t talk, but work’’. It emphasizes the importance of getting things done, being efficient and taking a practical approach to a task or challenge. I also believe that actions speak louder than words and can be more meaningful and impactful than words by themselves.
As Scientific Project Lead, what does your average day working at MIMETAS look like?
I’m responsible for overseeing and managing several of our scientific projects in combination with doing hands-on lab work myself. An average day includes discussing scientific results and project progress with the corresponding team or customer, providing scientific input for the development of new projects, and doing practical work, for example running an assay in the lab.
What was the biggest challenge you faced during your professional career?
The decision to work on the other side of the country. After receiving my master’s degree, I had the opportunity to join MIMETAS while living in the East of the Netherlands. I believe that it’s important to do something you love, so I made the decision to commute between the east and the west every weekend and live close to our main office in Leiden during the work week. Commuting takes me around 3 hours back and forth with public transport. The most challenging part was managing my work-life balance and juggling my time and energy between traveling, my partner, friends, family, and work. Over time, it was easier to find that balance, and I don’t regret my decision, even though it was difficult at times. Rather, I‘m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the MIMETAS’ team and that I have gotten the chance to be a part of this journey so far.
If MIMETAS had a theme song, what would it be and why?
Adventure of a lifetime – Coldplay. It has been great to see MIMETAS grow in so many facets. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of drug discovery, pursuing groundbreaking scientific discoveries, while overcoming obstacles and achieving success with an amazing team of talented people. It’s been a real adventure so far!
MIMETAS has achieved significant milestones over the past decade. Which milestone do you resonate with the most, and why?
Being elected the most innovative company of the Netherlands in 2022. Our goal to continuously enhance innovations in the biotech and pharmaceutical landscape, and thereby reducing the use of laboratory animals is one of the main reasons I wanted to contribute and work at MIMETAS. It’s rewarding to see the external recognition of the work that has been done so far, not only by MIMETAS but also by others.
If you could send a message to yourself 10 years ago, what would you tell the younger you?
Don’t overthink situations but make a decision that feels right. It’s not always possible to keep everyone aligned and happy with your decision. Just do it!
