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Dr. Agnes Baross |
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February 2008
 Job title and general description
Title: Genome BC Research Program Manager
Description: My job is to manage large-scale research projects that are funded by Genome BC and Genome Canada. This role involves managing both the scientific progress and the financial aspects of the projects to ensure they meet the goals and milestones set out in the project proposals and stay on budget. I am involved in projects from the early days of grant applications to various competitions of Genome Canada and Genome BC. I continue to work with the research teams throughout the lifetime of each project to increase their success by providing important management support.
What specific skills and qualities are needed to do your job?
This position requires a wide range of essential skills such as a very good understanding of genome sciences and the financial and management aspects of keeping the projects on track. The scientific projects that I work with include applications of genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics. They also utilize various technologies required in these fields. Along with understanding these topics, I need to be skilled in scientific writing. In my position I do a lot of reviewing and editing of grant applications, project progress reports, etc. My previous experience in writing these types of documents has helped me develop these skills. As I work with a wide range of people including scientists, administration and executive level staff, as well as various business partners, I need to have very good communication and organizational skills. An understanding of financial risk management is also essential.
What do you like most about your work?
I love to work in a field of science and research that incorporates discovery and innovation. In my previous jobs I was the scientist doing the hands-on work. In my current position I am helping others develop and move forward with exciting new projects and technologies. I enjoy working with a diverse group of people on a broad range of genomics projects including health sciences, fisheries and agriculture. It is exciting to always have new ideas and plans developing.
What don’t you like about your job?
I have no real complaints about my job. It is new and exciting with no shortage of things to learn.
Where do you see your career going from here?
As I have been in this position for under a year I have no plans of moving on. I am still soaking in new information and challenges ahead.
When did you know you wanted to work in sciences?
I remember being very interested in science ever since late elementary school. I really enjoyed Math, Physics, Biology and Chemistry in school.
What is your educational background? Degrees? Specific courses?
I grew up in Hungary. I received my B.Sc. degree in Chemical Engineering, my M.Sc. degree in Bioengineering and a Bioengineering Teacher’s Certificate from the Technical University of Budapest, Hungary. Subsequently I moved to Vancouver and obtained a Ph.D. in Genetics from the University of British Columbia. During my previous jobs I have also taken management courses.
What was your favorite course(s)?
Math and Genetics were the courses that I loved and found the most interesting.
What other hobbies and interests do you have?
At the moment I spend most of my time away from work with my family and raising my children. They keep me very busy. Things that I hope to get back to when I have more free time include sports and arts mostly related to music and reading classical-literature.
Do you have any advice for young people thinking about getting into your line of work?
Try to pursue your dreams. Careers in science require many years in school, so make sure you use that time to develop a diverse set of skills that you can apply to future career opportunities. Keep in mind that strong communication skills, computer skills and the ability to work well with a wide range of people will help you in whatever path you take. If you are interested in working in biological sciences, get some experience helping in a research lab to get a feeling for what it is like.
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