Time setter story: Jayeeta Sengupta on navigating career transitions and promoting inclusion

From India to the Netherlands

‘I was born and educated in India,’ Jayeeta starts. I studied biology, earning a bachelor's degree in Physiology and a master's degree in Human Physiology with a specialisation in Biochemistry. Later, I pursued a PhD in nanotechnology, specialising in nanomedicine, drug development, and nanotoxicology.’

Jayeeta’s academic journey took her around the world, with postdoctoral positions in Italy and Canada. ‘I worked with animal models and preclinical research. At some point, I realised I wanted to see the real-time implementation of my research, which led me to transition from academia to industry. There I could make things happen with my skill to ‘bridge’ between science and business. If you can understand both languages, it’s like a marriage made in heaven.’

While living in the Netherlands, Jayeeta began her industry career working at start-ups before transitioning to a role as a Valorisation Manager at Maastricht University, collaborating with Brightlands Maastricht Health Campus. ‘As a valorisation manager, I bridged research and business by identifying opportunities to translate scientific innovations into marketable products, partnerships, or societal benefits. I facilitated commercialisation, intellectual property management, and collaboration between academia and industry.’

Later, she joined Thermo Fisher Scientific as the EMEA Customer Training Manager for the Electron Microscopy division. 'Honestly, I thought I would never leave Thermo Fisher, and neither did they. But it was commercial and operational, and there was still a research person alive in me. The role of programme manager is a nice side. Knowing the research vision, working on the research road map and at the same time looking at the business side is a way to wear multiple hats.'

Embracing diversity and inclusion

Jayeeta’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is deeply rooted in her personal and professional life and stems from her upbringing. ‘My father is a social worker, and from childhood, I was involved in awareness programmes for thalassemia, HIV/AIDS, and blood donation. This background inspired me to continue these initiatives alongside my professional work. It’s a source of energy for me.’

‘DEI was one of the reasons I joined TNO. TNO’s job description mentioned the communities. The commitment to DEI in the organisation is important to me. At TNO I joined the cultural diversity group and became an ambassador for DEI.’

Breaking barriers and celebrating achievements

Jayeeta’s experience as a female manager in an environment with predominantly male peers have shaped her views on gender equality in the workplace. She reflects on her role in her previous positions in a different organisation, where she was the only female manager among all men managers in her division. ‘I was often the youngest and the only woman manager. It was important for me to have my opinions acknowledged just like my male counterparts and not be called ‘a strong woman’. No one calls men strong for just doing their job. It’s about being equally acknowledged and accepted.’

Her involvement in the 2025 Equals Role Model Campaign at TNO resonates with her personal beliefs. Within this yearly campaign on International Women's Day inspiring TNO women are placed in the spotlight.’ ‘The campaign celebrates women’s achievements in all fields and aims to break barriers. I feel proud to be part of this initiative as a role model.’

Advice for women starting their careers

‘Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Find your way and make yourself stand out. It may take time, but persistence and belief in yourself are key.’ She emphasises the importance of listening to one’s heart. ‘There is no set way to achieve your goals. It’s good to take advice, but ultimately, you need to find your own path.’