While preparing the Humans¹ project, Nathalie’s name came up more than most. Over the course of her 23-year career, she has become a linchpin of the laboratory. With her cheerful disposition, people skills and solid knowledge of the institute, Nathalie is a key figure who instils confidence and stability.
She was 19 when she decided to join the army. A daredevil and firm believer in what women can do, she felt she was every bit as capable as men and embarked on a career in the signals corps after completing her training. She later left the army to work for a construction materials company, a job that was more compatible with bringing up children. Nathalie has never shirked a challenge, adapting to and ultimately revelling in tough, “male” environments.
On moving to Toulouse, she discovered the world of research, starting out with the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (Inserm). She took and passed a CNRS examination and joined the LBB² in 2000 as the secretary to the director and assignment manager. There Nathalie encountered a very different world to the discipline and rigour of army life, a world in which she was free to act and to listen. Before long, she had gained the trust of the researchers: “I’ve never felt out of step with researchers. The way I see it, we’re all on the same team.”
Her job has evolved over the years, and she is now the laboratory’s head of administration. She has assisted six different laboratory directors³ in all, ensuring a seamless transition from one to another. “Every management team is different, so you have to learn to work together. The key is communication.”.
- In launching the Humans of TBI project, we wanted the “Humans” to be selected by the laboratory staff themselves, which is why we invited them to take part in an extensive anonymous survey.
- The LBB (Biotechnology–Bioprocesses Laboratory) later merged with the LIPE to become the LISBP, which is now TBI.
- Laboratory directors are appointed for a period of five years.
