ISCRR’s Research Program and Operations Manager, Dr Kim Pham, recently delivered the keynote address at the Monash Institute of Medical Engineering (MIME) Women in STEMM Student Leader Awards Morning Tea.
Speaking to emerging STEMM leaders, Kim reflected on how her understanding of success has changed across different stages of her life and career. With a background in biomedical science and early roles at leading institutes in Melbourne, her early career was shaped by traditional markers of achievement: qualifications, publications and progression.
However, when her mother was diagnosed with a brain tumour, Kim’s priorities shifted. Success became less about the next opportunity and more about being present as a daughter and carer. That experience reshaped how she viewed ambition, impact and leadership.
Kim encouraged students to build strong professional networks grounded in trust and generosity, and to see career paths as dynamic paths for them to shape rather than linear trajectories. Her closing message was simple: remain open to change, and with the right network you can redefine success on your own terms.
ISCRR congratulates the award recipients and thanks Kim for sharing her experience and insight with the next generation of STEMM leaders.