Photo Gallery: BIO5 Inspiring Careers in Research highlights resilience and finding your own path
More than 75 attendees joined the annual event on July 1 to hear researchers share advice on resilience, career growth and finding their own path.
Deanna Rodriguez, BIO5 Institute
More than 75 students, researchers and community members joined the BIO5 Institute in person at the Grand Challenges Building and online for the 2026 Inspiring Careers in Research event on July 1.
Formerly known as BIO5 Inspiring Women in STEM, the event has evolved into BIO5 Inspiring Careers in Research to reflect its broader mission of welcoming anyone interested in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and research. The event brings together researchers at different career stages to share personal stories, practical advice and encouragement with the next generation of innovators, highlighting diverse voices and experiences.
This year's program featured keynote speaker Aline de Camargo Santos, a research scientist at Bayer Marana Innovation Center, and panelists from the University of Arizona: Sara Burke, department head and professor of neuroscience; Karina Gutiérrez García, assistant professor of ecology and evolutionary biology; Carolina Noriega, a doctoral candidate in the Family Studies and Human Development Program; and Maria Eugenia "Uge" Sancho Santos, a postdoctoral research associate with the One Health Initiative. Together, they shared their personal and professional journeys, offering honest insights into the challenges and opportunities they encountered throughout their research careers.
The discussion focused on finding your own path, building resilience and believing in yourself through every stage of a research career. Speakers encouraged attendees to embrace uncertainty, learn from setbacks and recognize that there is no single route to success.
Following the panel discussion, attendees connected with speakers during a networking session, where they continued the conversation, asked questions and gained valuable career advice.
Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event a meaningful opportunity for learning, connection and inspiration. Special thanks to Bayer Marana Innovation Center for sponsoring the event and supporting the next generation of researchers.
