Newsletter
Maria Magdalena Razalan
During her MCAA journey, Maria Magdalena Razalan has specialised in member engagement. She hopes to use this knowledge as the new Secretary of the Board by actively listening and gaining a deeper understanding of member needs.
Maria Magdalena Razalan first became involved in the MCAA by participating in an event organised by the UK Chapter back in 2017. Content with the experience, she reached out to the chapter to see how she could support their work, particularly engaging members. For a fresh researcher, joining the MCAA offered interesting possibilities.
“What attracted me to the Association is that it offered a lot of opportunities to broaden my horizons at a key stage of my career, right after finishing my PhD. It has allowed me to grow and develop my personal and professional profile in several ways.”
Maria Magdalena, currently a Grant Manager at the Academy of Medical Sciences, progressed from member to Member Engagement Officer and eventually Chair of the UK Chapter for the years 2021–2023. She believes her experiences from her career journey as well as her years as an active member of the MCAA can be helpful as part of the Board.
“As a member of the Executive Committee, I wish to offer and strengthen my skill set and share my perspective as a former researcher who pursued a career outside academia in service of the Association’s hugely diverse and dynamic membership.”
Maria Magdalena highlights the importance of active listening to best serve and engage the MCAA members. She also wants to keep an eye on how to enhance meaningful interactions in and outside the Association.
“I will focus on gaining a better understanding of the composition and needs of the MCAA community and encouraging more active participation in our activities. Furthermore, I will lead horizon scanning to identify ways to form new connections with colleagues, associations, and institutions across different sectors.”
Finally, the new Secretary extends her gratitude to the MCAA members for putting their confidence in the Board.
“I really enjoyed meeting many of you at the last Annual Conference and General Assembly in Milan, and I look forward to working with you and supporting you in the next two years!”
Kira Keini
MCAA Communication Officer
kira.keini@mariecuriealumni.eu
@kirakeini