The Pivot - Jobina Lopez

I was well on my way through my studies in Applied Science.

After completing my Bachelor, I began my Master of Applied Science (Genetics), but life took a turn when I had two babies back-to-back during my Masters.

Suddenly, I had to put my career ambitions on hold for several years.

When the time finally came to restart, I honestly felt a mix of hope and fear: hope that I could begin again, and fear that I wouldn’t be given a real chance.

I tried to move into the genetics field I had trained for, but it was almost impossible to get a job in the area I had studied because I had no experience and felt overlooked.

In that moment, I joined the gym just to cope and get through each day.

And that’s where everything shifted.

I met a friend who introduced me to clinical research. I didn’t know much about it, but the second I was given the opportunity to step in, I felt something click.

I started in clinical operations, and I couldn’t stop being inspired by the Clinical Research Coordinators. I set that as my goal and chased every chance I could to get closer.

It led me from Phase 1 trials to on-site Phase II–III studies, and eventually to my current role at sponsor level in Oncology at QCGC Research (UQ), working on gynaecological cancer trials that aim to improve treatment outcomes for future generations of women.

That path wasn’t the one I originally planned.

But it shaped me, redirected me, and ultimately brought me to work I’m genuinely passionate about.

LESSONS LEARNED

1. Be open to unexpected opportunities

Clinical research wasn’t part of my original plan.

A conversation with a friend opened a door, and I chose to see where it may lead.

2. You don’t have to know the whole path

I focused on the next opportunity rather than trying to plan my entire career.

3. Qualifications matter, but experience matters too

My qualifications gave me a foundation, but experience gave me the opportunity to prove what I could do.

Getting that first opportunity made all the difference.

Thank you, Jobina, for sharing your story with us!