Employee Spotlight takes a peek behind the scenes to showcase the wide range of talent that makes up the Theralink team. Get an inside look at a career in biopharma and the people who are working tirelessly to bring industry-transforming proteomic technology to precision medicine. Today we meet with Katie Schultz!
Where are you from, and where did you earn your credentials?
I’ve been in Colorado since I was twelve, but before that I lived in Calgary, Canada; Santa Rosa, California; and I’m originally from the Twin Cities. I earned a B.S. in Chemistry with a Biochemistry specialty from the Colorado School of Mines right here in Golden, CO.
What’s your favorite part of your role at Theralink?
I am a research specialist who recently began leading the lab aspects of biopharma projects. I work with our business and bioinformatics teams to ensure our projects are completed to the best of our abilities in the timeframe agreed upon.
I really enjoy starting new projects: it’s exciting when the lab work finally begins. Whether it’s cutting FFPE blocks or lysing cell pellets, I’m always eager to hit the ground running with a new project.
What was your career journey like?
Before starting at Theralink, I’d split my time between tending bar at a local Italian restaurant and working as a Certified Nursing Assistant at St. Anthony Hospital to strengthen my medical school resume. I applied to Theralink because being in the lab would be a nice change of pace from the twelve- and thirteen-hour shifts I usually worked. It also provided a great way to learn more about cancer research and improve my bench skills. Turns out I like the lab much more than I thought and as a result, I’m applying to Ph.D. programs instead of medical school now.
Any advice for aspiring scientists out there?
Try out new jobs and skills whenever you get the opportunity. It’s hard to know what the best fit for you is otherwise. Don’t be afraid of a career change (if already in the field) or a track change (if a student).
What hobbies do you spend you free time on?
Growing up in Colorado, I have an inherent love for the outdoors, whether that’s hiking, mountain biking or backcountry camping. I also enjoy team sports and play in soccer and volleyball leagues in my spare time.
What’s one interesting fact about yourself?
My husband and I adopted a Kelpie-Australian Shepherd puppy named Cora in May, and she’s super cute.