Meet Dr. Tami Martino
Dr. Tami Martino earned her Ph.D. in Medical Genetics from the University of Toronto. She currently works as a Director of the Centre for Cardiovascular Investigations and Professor of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Guelph. In her spare time, she likes to do photography, ride a bike, do public speaking, speak at TedX, research on circadian biology, do recreational sports, and travel with family.
When did your love of STEM begin?
I was the kid in grade school mixing up lotions and potions, trying to create “new worlds” in my parents’ bathroom sink. I was the girl in high school secretly hoping someone would buy me a chemistry set for my birthday. And I was the student in university studying alongside my friends in the library, but the only one doing sciences and math. My parents always told me I could be anything I wanted to be, and I wanted to be a Scientist. Even though I wasn’t sure how I would get there early on, I just kept doing what felt right for me and eventually I found the doors leading to a career in STEM that I love.
What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?
Being a Scientist means we get to use really cool state-of-the-art equipment and techniques. Also, research is a very creative and innovative process, it's a reflection of how we uniquely see the world. We are especially excited about our research developing a new field called Circadian Medicine, and applications to clinical cardiology, which can lead to longer and healthier lives. Moreover, it's a real pleasure for me to meet so many bright young students, and I feel very honoured to work with them to help build their careers as the next generation of leading scientists and clinicians. Lastly, travelling to conferences to present our research and networking with peers from around the world is pretty awesome as well!
What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?
If your path is different than your friends paths - that's ok - find what is uniquely you. Love what you do, do what you love, and work with others to pursue excellence together!