Current job description?
I head a DNA analysis laboratory in Diliman, Philippines. Together with my team of 11 staff, I assist with disputed parentage and criminal cases by analysing DNA from various types of casework samples (e.g. bones, sexual assault evidence, soft and hard tissues). We also maintain and expand a DNA reference database for statistical analysis of evidentiary samples. In addition, we advise and train local and international scientists in the Asia-Pacific region in forensic DNA analysis.

Your strengths?
Problem solving - finding new ways to solve apparently unsolvable problems; muti-tasking; public speaking; report writing; logical thinking; working as a team player in the laboratory.

 

Worst part of the job?
The bureaucracy involved in trying to get things up and running and the relatively low pay in government service.

Best part of the job?
That I can immediately see the effect of my work in peoples lives, e.g. when resolving disputed parentage cases, identification of mass disaster victims and also being able to perform a key role in solving criminal investigations. Also, I have had the opportunity to speak with different sectors of society, and I think I have had an influence in the formulation of some policies, which could impact at a national level.

Most valuble experience from UNSW?
Learning to compete only with myself, acknowledging that personality and situational differences exist. This helps me to strive to better my previous self every day, without worrying about other people's achievements.

Moreover, this attitude helps me to value a person for his/her own sake. This is particularly important in motivating the staff who I directly supervise.

Where will you be in 10-15 years time?
I don't know. I haven't thought about this yet.

 

Job you most covet?
I don't think about this. At the moment I like my job...but who knows what the future holds.