Daniala Weir

Daniala at work

I’ve always been a genuinely curious person with an interest in developing a deep understanding of the world around me. When I was completing my undergraduate programme in Canada, I took an immunology course that introduced the SARS pandemic of 2000. This topic really intrigued me in a way nothing had before. The thought of being an epidemiologist seemed really interesting. This helped me realise that I wanted to pursue a career in scientific research that answers real world clinical questions that impacts the health of everyday people. 

Research with impact

My PhD focussed on how medications can influence morbidity and mortality after patients are discharged from hospital. But it didn’t stop there. I was part of a team that developed a medication management app called Smart About Medications. It’s been great to see patients use the app as it makes the research I’m conducting feel more impactful. 

After my PhD, I completed a post-doctoral fellowship imbedded within a hospital but I wanted more freedom to explore my own research interests, so I started looking for academic positions in North America. However, when I saw an advert at Utrecht University it seemed like a perfect fit for me. I discussed taking the position at length with my mentors to see what they thought about Utrecht, and they all had very positive things to say. 

I was hired as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, with a focus on real world evidence. I couldn’t be happier with my choice. I feel that I have the flexibility to develop my research focus around my interests and passions. Working at Utrecht University has exceeded my expectations in a lot of different ways. Partly because of the innovative and advanced health care landscape in the Netherlands.  

I feel that I have the flexibility to develop my research focus around my interests and passions.

Team science

Daniala at work in a group setting

My colleagues are very important to me, in fact I couldn’t do my job without them. They supported me through this huge transition to another country. They’ve really gone above and beyond to make me feel more at home. I also genuinely feel that my differences are seen in a positive light and that I’m a valued member of the team. 

When I think about my goals, I don’t tend to think of them in terms of my position and promotion. Of course, you’re working within a system where you want to meet certain targets and milestones. But I tend to view my goals more in terms of the impact my research could have for improving the health of patients in clinical practice. In the next few years I would like to have a project implemented in the healthcare setting. A project that reaches patients and improves their care. Utrecht University is the perfect environment to make such a project a reality. 

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