International Women’s Day 2024 with Jennifer Zimmer
Jennifer Zimmer, PhD
Laboratory Director
Alturas Analytics, Inc., (ID, USA)
Dr Jennifer Zimmer is the Laboratory Director at Alturas Analytics, Inc. and has been working in the field of bioanalysis for over 20 years. She received her BA degree in English and Zoology from the University of Idaho (ID, USA) and her PhD in Pharmacology from the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center (CO, USA), working in Dr Robert Murphy’s laboratory on the leukotriene lipid mediator pathway. Her post-doctoral experience in Dr Richard Smith’s laboratory focused on using metabolomics to elucidate disease pathways and to discover novel biomarker targets.
Dr Zimmer is responsible for the overall operation of the Alturas Analytics laboratory. She has experience with FTICR, TOF, ion trap and quadrupole instrumentation. She has utilized these instruments for quantitation as well as structure elucidation using HPLC-MS/MS and HPLC-MSn. She oversees the scientific staff and ensures that client deliverables are met while working laterally with the Alturas Analytics, Inc. Quality Assurance Unit to maintain laboratory compliance with all procedures and regulations. Dr Zimmer is an active participant in the Global CRO Council (GCC) and a member of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry.
What motivated you to pursue a career in science and how have you overcome challenges along the way?
I’ve always enjoyed the order and logic inherent to STEM education and the application of science to solving problems. Being able to apply my education to being a small part of drug development and solutions in healthcare has been a rewarding career path. The challenges that have come along the way are always best met head-on and conquered by dissecting the problems into smaller pieces that are more manageable to accomplish.
Are there specific areas within your field where you see opportunities for more women to make significant contributions?
I have been fortunate to work in the healthcare industry at a time when women being at the highest level of decision-makers has become widely accepted. Because of this transition, my hope is that women’s health issues such as miscarriage, infertility and menopause, which have traditionally been deprioritized, will move into the forefront of research priorities.
How important has mentorship been in your career, and have you had any notable mentors or role models who influenced your journey?
I have many incredible female colleagues at Alturas who have consistently provided support for me and my career. Robin Woods, President of Alturas, co-founded the company over 23 years ago and remains actively involved in the operation while nurturing a culture that encourages individualism in a team environment.
Are there specific policies or initiatives that you believe could enhance and support the work of women in scientific careers?
Awareness and exposure to STEM programs is a step in encouraging women to pursue technical interests. The earlier a child understands that science is approachable, the fear begins to fade, science becomes fun and they begin to visualize the potential of a rewarding career.
Is there a female colleague you would like to commend for their contributions or achievements in the bioanalytical field specifically?
It is hard to single out one specific female colleague. I have worked with many fantastic female scientists during collaboration with our sponsors and I have appreciated their wisdom and camaraderie over the years as we have worked together to move their drug development programs forward.
