For our Alumna of the Month interview, we spoke to Charlotte Ellis, Scientist at STEMCELL Technologies, Canada.
Charlotte joined Bromley High School in 1998 and left in 2012. She studied A level Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics. Charlotte has an Undergraduate degree in Chemistry from University of Bristol, a Postgraduate degree in Chemistry from Cardiff University and a Doctoral degree in Chemistry from University of Victoria, Canada.
Please can you briefly describe your current role?
As a Scientist at STEMCELL Technologies, Canada’s largest biotechnology company, I contribute to the development of innovative products that facilitate scientific discovery in the life sciences. Our products support graduate students, research organisations, and pharmaceutical companies in their research efforts.
As part of the Chemistry team in Research & Development, we focus on developing nanoparticles designed to streamline biological workflows. For instance, our nanoparticles are engineered to isolate specific cell types from complex mixtures, such as separating a particular type of white blood cell from a blood sample for further analysis.
A typical week involves designing and performing scientific experiments, synthesising and characterising nanoparticles, analysing data, reviewing scientific literature, and presenting findings at internal meetings.
“Bromley High School provided a supportive environment to explore both my academic and creative passions.”
How did Bromley High School help shape your future career?
Bromley High School provided a supportive environment that allowed me to explore both my academic and creative passions. The school helped me identify my strengths and weaknesses, guiding me towards a career path that best suited me.
A standout example of this support is my journey with mathematics. When I entered Year 7, I was placed in the lowest set and struggled significantly. However, thanks to the dedicated support from my teachers, maths quickly became one of my strongest subjects. I continued to study maths through A-level and now frequently apply it in my work as a scientist.
What aspects of Bromley High School did you most enjoy, and find most rewarding?
I thoroughly enjoyed the vast range of extracurricular activities and experiences offered at Bromley High School. I have fond memories of the Hockey Club, Speech & Drama Club, and Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. Christmas festivities, fireworks nights, and school plays also stand out as memorable highlights of my time there.
What is your favourite memory of being at Bromley High School?
I was lucky enough to be at Bromley High School for the school’s 125th-anniversary performance at the Royal Albert Hall. Being part of the dance performance was truly an incredible and unforgettable experience!
What value do you get out of your connections with your fellow alumnae and the wider GDST community?
Now that I live in Canada, staying in regular touch with my fellow alumnae is challenging. However, I find it deeply inspiring to see career and personal updates from my past classmates and the wider GDST community online. Celebrating the achievements of these successful women provides me with a sense of empowerment and connection.