Women in STEM with Stella Vnook

Can you tell us about your journey in the field of STEM and the challenges you encountered along the way?

My journey into STEM began with a strong passion for science and a curiosity about how to do things differently, including a drive to explore new paths to treating a disease, as well as new solutions to problems that plague the biopharma space. I have spent nearly 30 years of my career advancing healthcare and biotechnology. Initially, I started as a scientist and healthcare provider, focusing on creating innovative solutions that have a direct impact on patient health. Moving through leadership roles at pharmaceutical giants like Merck & Co., I eventually transitioned into the biotech startup space, where I co-founded companies like Oral Biolife, NAKI Therapeutics, and Kaida Biopharma.

One of the biggest challenges I have faced is breaking through the conventional boundaries within the industry, particularly as a woman in leadership. Early on, there were moments where my expertise was questioned simply because I did not fit into someone’s perception of a scientist, leader or CEO, and like many women in STEM, I have had to consistently prove that my value lies in my expertise and vision. Leading a company that develops novel therapies for complex diseases, I have navigated the challenge of securing funding, which is often more difficult for women-led companies. However, these challenges have only fuelled my determination to innovate and transform the biotechnology landscape.

Could you share an example of a specific project or research that you have worked on and the impact it has had in your field?

One project that has had a profound impact in my field is the development of AmberDent Gel through my company Oral Biolife. This gel targets periodontal disease by using regenerative technology to rebuild bone and gum tissue—an issue affecting millions worldwide. Traditional treatments often fall short, so we focused on a completely new approach to addressing the root causes of the disease. This product is not just about oral health, but about improving quality of life and overall patient health, as poor oral health is linked to systemic issues like cardiovascular disease. I have also worked extensively on expanding and evolving Likarda’s Core-Shell Spherification® technology, which focuses on encapsulating cells for therapies that can be applied across diseases such as diabetes and cartilage regeneration.

The impact of these projects extends beyond just the research—this technology will redefine how we treat chronic conditions and manage long-term patient health.

What potential future applications or implications do you foresee based on your work?

In the near future, I foresee the application of our Core-Shell Spherification® technology expanding well beyond diabetes, cell encapsulation and cartilage regeneration. Likarda’s encapsulation platform has the potential to reshape the entire cell therapy landscape, from logistics to cryopreservation and performance of the therapy (both efficacy and safety). Imagine applying this technology to other chronic diseases, such as liver disease or even neurodegenerative disorders, enabling cells to thrive and repair tissues without the need for immunosuppressive drugs.

Additionally, with AmberDent Gel and our regenerative oral health solutions, we are setting the stage for more advanced tissue regeneration therapies that could be used for other bone or soft tissue-related diseases. The implications for both human and veterinary medicine are immense, and I believe we are only scratching the surface of what is possible.

As a woman in STEM, what unique perspectives or strengths do you believe you bring to your work?

I bring the strength of seeing the bigger picture and translating complex scientific data into real-world applications. My experience spans lab/academia, hospital, big pharma and biotech startups, giving me a unique ability to navigate both the scientific and business sides of innovation. This holistic view allows me to make decisions that are not just scientifically sound, but also strategically aligned with market needs and patient outcomes.

As a woman, I have learned resilience and empathy. Both of these qualities are essential in leading teams and fostering collaboration in research. Women often bring a collaborative and inclusive approach to leadership, which I believe fosters a stronger and more creative scientific community. My journey has given me the tenacity to push boundaries, especially in traditionally male-dominated fields, and the understanding that innovation comes not just from technology, but from how you build and lead a diverse team.

What advice would you give to young women who are considering a career in STEM but may be hesitant due to societal stereotypes or perceived challenges?

My advice to young women is simple: do not let stereotypes define your path. The field of STEM is vast and full of opportunity, but it can be tough. You will likely face doubt, but it is important to remember that your voice and ideas are needed. Surround yourself with mentors who believe in you, and never shy away from opportunities to learn and lead. The road might be challenging, but every step will make you stronger. Embrace the challenges—they will prepare you for leadership and innovation in ways that many others may never experience.

How do you see the representation of women in STEM changing over the years, and what further progress do you believe is needed?

There has been significant progress in increasing the representation of women in STEM, particularly in leadership roles. However, there is still much more work to be done. Women are underrepresented in top executive positions, particularly in biotech and pharmaceutical companies. I believe one of the biggest barriers is the lack of visibility and recognition for women’s contributions in these fields.

We need more women in leadership, and we need to create pathways that help them get there—whether through mentorship programmes, leadership development, or simply by promoting women who are already making significant contributions. At the same time, we need to ensure that STEM education encourages young women to pursue careers in fields like biotechnology, engineering, and IT, starting as early as high school.

In your opinion, what can organisations and institutions do to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women pursuing STEM careers?

To create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women pursuing STEM careers, organisations need to go beyond surface-level initiatives. My own journey has shown me how critical flexibility and advancement opportunities are, especially when balancing personal and professional growth. For example, while working at Merck, I pursued my MBA at night and on weekends, juggling the demanding responsibilities of my role alongside further education. This experience taught me that women need flexible career paths that do not force them to choose between education, advancement, and personal commitments.

Organisations should offer part-time advancement programmes or weekend courses, which would allow women to further their education without stepping away from their careers. Providing options for part-time leadership roles or offering remote work for critical tasks can also ensure that women can continue to grow in their careers without sacrificing work-life balance. Additionally, organisations could develop programmes where high-potential employees like working mothers or caregivers have access to accelerated leadership training tailored to their needs. This makes it possible for women to progress even when life outside of work becomes demanding.

Mentorship programmes are essential, but sponsorship—where senior leaders actively advocate for women’s career growth—is just as important. I have always advocated for pairing younger talent with established leaders who not only mentor but also open doors for them within the organisation. Ensuring women have visible role models in top positions is crucial to breaking stereotypes and allowing more women to envision themselves in leadership.

Addressing unconscious bias is also key. I have seen first-hand how bias can subtly steer conversations away from recognising women’s contributions. A simple but novel approach would be to incorporate mandatory bias training specifically tailored to STEM, where bias can play out in the form of microaggressions, unequal project assignments, or promotions. This could be further reinforced through data-driven reviews of promotions, pay gaps, and project allocations—hard evidence ensures transparency and accountability.

Lastly, offering programs like returnships for women who have taken time away from the workforce would create a more welcoming space for them to re-enter STEM roles, something I know resonates with women at all stages of their careers.

Looking ahead, what exciting developments or advancements do you foresee in your field of STEM, and how do you envision your own research contributing to those future innovations?

One of the most exciting developments I foresee is the continued advancement of personalised medicine—using a patient’s own cells to treat their condition. Also, my work with Likarda’s encapsulation technology is a perfect example of advancing drug delivery for advanced therapies, and I believe that in the near future, we will see cell therapies become mainstream for treating chronic diseases such as diabetes and arthritis, as well as regenerative medicine in soft tissue repair.

In oral health, my work with Oral BioLife is advancing the field of regenerative oral therapies, which could have systemic benefits for patients by improving overall health through better oral care. Looking ahead, I see a future where therapies not only treat diseases but also prevent them by restoring the body’s natural ability to regenerate and heal.