Raise the Curtin - Laboratory Support Team
Meet our incredible Laboratory Support Team at JCSMR! They’re the unsung heroes who keep our labs running like clockwork. From ensuring lab safety to maintaining cleanliness, they’re the backstage crew making sure everything is set for the next groundbreaking discovery. Their mission? To make life easier for the brilliant researchers who rely on them every day.
Amid their busy schedule, our Laboratory Support team—led by Sarika Abbott and joined by Ruel Jugado, Daniel Facchin, and David Barbero—took a moment to participate in the 'Raise the Curtin' segment. Here’s what they had to share!
What is your role at JCSMR?
We’re the behind-the-scenes team that makes sure the labs are safe, clean, and functioning properly. Whether it’s prepping for inspections or troubleshooting equipment issues, we handle all the details so researchers can focus on their work. Basically, we’re here to keep things running smoothly without any hiccups.
What do you like the most about your role?
What we love most is knowing that our work helps make a difference, even if we’re not in the spotlight. Supporting research that could change lives is incredibly rewarding, and we take pride in knowing that everything is running safely and securely. Plus, it’s great to be part of a team that always has each other’s backs, ensuring the labs are safe and well-maintained.
What inspired you to pursue a career in your field?
Science is like magic, but real! We’ve always been curious about how things work, and the combination of problem-solving and making a real impact is what got us into this field. Supporting research that could make the world a better place makes the job feel meaningful every day.
What is your definition of a scientist?
A scientist is like a modern-day explorer—someone who never stops asking questions and is always searching for answers. They push boundaries, search for facts, and constantly strive to understand the world around us.
What is the thing you look forward to most when you are at JCSMR?
It’s not just the work—it’s the people. Working with such a great team makes each day enjoyable. Those quick conversations in the hallway or the lab are sometimes where you learn the most, and that shared sense of purpose keeps us motivated.
What brings you the most joy in life?
Seeing the people we care about happy and succeeding—it’s what makes everything worthwhile. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about watching others grow, reach their goals, and thrive. It reminds us that we’re part of something bigger, helping people achieve their potential.
Are you also interested in introducing yourself to JCSMR community and beyond through Raise the Curtin? The micro-interview format is set to let us get to know each other better—our work roles, our personalities, and some of our thoughts. Let's get to know.... you!