Erica Conte, PhD

Q: Tell us a bit about your graduate research. What were your most exciting findings?  
I studied the role of TIMP3 (an inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases) in various etiologies of lung injury and found that mice lacking this inhibitor are more susceptible to lung injury following sepsis, but not if the injury was induced by mechanical ventilation or exposure to high oxygen concentrations. The mechanism leading to the phenomenon was dependent on the alveolar macrophage and was thought to be the result of excessive MMP7 activity.  

Q: What skills did you acquire in graduate school that help you in your current position? How did your degree give you an advantage in attaining your position?  
Graduate school gave me several skills that I use on a daily basis in my current position. It taught me how to: 1) critically read and interpret scientific results, 2) write for a scientific audience in a clear and concise manner, 3) write a grant following specific criteria, 4) give a strong oral presentation, 5) multitask and work with competing deadlines and 6) it provided a strong knowledge base in physiology and molecular biology. 

Since critical care research is a priority for St. Michael’s Hospital, my background is a perfect match.  

Q: How did you learn about the posting for your current job?  
It wasn’t posted. I was applying for an identical job at UWO, and one of my references made a competing offer. 

Q: Did you know when you entered graduate school that you would most likely pursue a career outside academia?  
No, even when I had completed my graduate studies I had the intention of pursuing a career in academia. I completed a Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) postdoctoral fellowship abroad, worked as a research associate for a few years, and held a position as a scientific advisor for a medical device company for one year before transitioning into Research Administration. It is important to continuously evaluate what is the best path for you, to help you reach your own personal goals and create the lifestyle you want.  

Q: What is your favorite part of your job?  
I love that I get to work on different projects and types of research every day. I get to be involved in all of the amazing research being conducted here at the Institute. 

Q: What are some specific examples of extracurricular activities (outside of research) that you participated in, which helped you get to the position you are at now?  
I chose to do a PDF abroad, which increased my knowledge of other granting systems, strengthened my international network, and allowed me to learn a new language. I am also a health and fitness coach, which mirrors my love of helping people – this love of helping people, in my opinion, is central to medical research.  

Q: What is one piece of advice you can offer to current graduate students? To current postdoctoral fellows?  
Do something you love. There is nothing worse than not enjoying how you spend your days. Don’t be afraid to try something new, especially if you are not getting satisfaction in your current position. I never thought I would end up in my current position – but find it very rewarding and a perfect fit for my lifestyle. 

Q: What are some suggestions for networking? 
Attend conferences in your field and don’t be too shy to talk to people. Go introduce yourself, ask questions, invite people for a coffee, and give out business cards. The key is that you want them to remember you. 

Q: What does your perfect Sunday look like?  
Go to church in the morning with my family, go out for brunch afterwards, then have some friends over for an afternoon backyard pool party. Finish the day with a BBQ and a movie with my hubby.