A Career Working with Chemicals – Meet Georgina Mawer, one of our Women in Science
Continuing with the theme of women in science, our next profile features Georgina Mawer, Chemistry Lead & Chem-MAP Technical Manager at Eurofins | BLC.
Georgina has been in science for 13 years. After focussing her university studies on science, she obtained a BSc (hons) degree in Forensic Science, and went on to gain a few years’ experience in a pharmaceutical laboratory before landing a client-facing chemistry role. Georgina’s work experience includes a year in analytical development, a year in quality control, and 7 years in managing hazardous chemistry. She is also a member of the Royal Society of Chemistry.
Georgina’s first role at Eurofins | BLC was Chemical and Regulatory Advisor where she provided chemical compliance support for customers. Georgina then went on to manage the department as Lead Chemical and Regulatory Advisor and has recently been promoted Chemistry Lead & Chem-MAP Technical Manager.
Currently, Georgina works in the field of chemical management where she supports the consumer product supply chains with the elimination of hazardous chemicals and provides understanding of legislation through the implementation of robust chemical management systems. Working with brands and retailers, Georgina retains her knowledge and experience in chemistry, while applying it to consumer products.
“My role has developed significantly at Eurofins | BLC, and for the past year I have been working on the launch of Chem-MAP, our new chemical verification system for leather, textile and synthetic materials, which helps organisations in the supply chain to satisfy the objectives of ZDHC.”
“Implementing chemical management systems and procedures in an ever-changing environment can be challenging. I find that chemical legislation is always evolving which helps to improve standards all over the world, however it requires ongoing effort to ensure all customers are kept up to date with the latest changes.”
“I feel that my work-life balance is good, and my role gives me time to spend with my children.”
Women in Science and STEM Jobs
Many schools, colleges and universities hold events encouraging young women and girls to start a career in STEM subjects. Georgina has supported her children’s school by giving a presentation on her career for a specialist STEM assembly, and in addition to this Georgina’s role allows her to speak publicly.
The leather industry is in need of the next generation of scientific and technical professionals and it would appear that there are opportunities within the sector for both men and women, however not many young people are aware of the industry, let alone the opportunities it has to offer. The leather industry boasts a variety of roles which can cover legislation, chemical compliance and chemical management.
Georgina’s advice to women looking to start a career in science:
“Don’t be scared of being over-ambitious. The fundamentals of science are to always question ‘why?’.
Careers in Science at Eurofins | BLC
At Eurofins | BLC, we advocate women in science, and we are usually on the look out for talented individuals who can fit into our young and enthusiastic team. If you think a career in science is for you, then why not view any vacancies on our careers web page or email [email protected]
15 February 2019