Miranda Stott, SCC Biotech student, A.S. degree/Academic Transfer
Clinical Service Technician and Clinical Conduct Officer, Celerion, Lincoln
SCC: What are your responsibilities in your current job?
Miranda: We conduct clinical trials on new drugs. We monitor the effects of the drug on the body as well as how the drug is metabolized. This information is gathered through vital signs, ECGs, blood samples, urine samples, and weight measurement. I am responsible for conducting many of those things as well as processing urine and blood samples to be analyzed. I also am responsible for overseeing all other conduct in the clinic and managing my fellow associates.
SCC: What do you enjoy most about your job in the biotech field?
Miranda: All of my colleagues are a joy to work with as well as the people who volunteer their time and participate in our studies. As a leader, I have the unique opportunity to provide guidance and support to associates and study participants. I also enjoy the rigor of working in clinical research. There is never a dull moment, and I learn something new every day. I am always training in additional roles and learning about new drugs, assays and procedures.
SCC: Why is the Biotech field a good field to get into?
Miranda: The Biotechnology field is such an exciting and diverse field. I think many people might not understand how broad it is, how fast it is growing, and how fast it will continue to grow. Biotechnology is a good field to get into for anyone interested in biology, chemistry, engineering, marketing, business administration, agriculture, medicine, technology and more. It really is that broad!
SCC: What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into the biotech field, but are not sure where to start?
Miranda: If you have a strong interest in science and already took some introductory science courses, there is a good chance you are ready to jump right in. However, if you are new to college or not sure how you feel about science, start with some introductory science classes. I always recommend Microbiology as a first choice because it is interesting and applicable to your life. Microbiology is used a lot in biotechnology and will allow you to gain some familiarity with organisms used in various facets of the Biotech industry. You also will need to be a proficient reader and writer so be sure to include some English classes when you start.
SCC: After overcoming a number of personal obstacles, how were you able to push through?
Miranda: I have had to overcome many personal obstacles. However, the people in my life have had the largest impact on my success through all of this. I could not have done this alone. I have an amazingly hard-working and supportive husband who shares my dreams and is my partner in encouraging our children to chase their own dreams. I have parents and siblings who inspired me to reach for more, and I had the opportunity to study under some of the greatest minds. The instructors and faculty at SCC are truly amazing and want to see their students succeed. They have always been understanding with my situations and have worked with me to achieve my goals.
SCC: What are your goals for the future?
Miranda: One of my biggest goals is to attend medical school and become a physician. Growing up, I always dreamed of becoming a doctor, and my experiences working in Biotechnology and clinical research have fortified my desire to pursue medicine. I like to focus more on short-term goals, like spending time with my family, being healthy, finding new ways to contribute to my local community, learning as much as I can, and improving myself as an all-around human being.