Lilian
Background: Bachelor’s in Applied Biology, Technical University of Kenya & Master’s in Molecular and Cell Biology, University of New Haven
Placement: Anatomic Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital
Learn more about the Fellowship HERE.
When Lilian moved to the US four years ago, she brought with her over a decade of pharmaceutical quality control experience and a clear goal: to transition into advanced molecular and clinical research environments. Originally from Kenya, Lilian has a Bachelor’s in Applied Biology from the Technical University of Kenya. Here, she worked in regulated pharmaceutical environments, supporting quality assurance processes, laboratory testing protocols, and compliance standards.
Lilian was motivated to come to the US to start her Master’s in Molecular and Cell Biology and establish a research career. Despite her years of professional
experience in Kenya, she struggled to find work that aligned with her goals, saying,
“You need to have US experience to work here. Trying to break into a new career when you don’t have prior experience is very hard. I just got stuck.”
This changed after a friend told her about the Fellowship. She knew this was her opportunity to get the hands-on work she needed to establish a career for herself. She says,
“I immediately took action on this opportunity.”
Lilian’s action paid off, as she has been placed in the Anatomic Pathology department at Massachusetts General Hospital. Through the Fellowship, Lilian will be able to translate her international laboratory expertise into the US healthcare system, gaining hands-on exposure in a high-performing medical center while contributing immediately to pathology operations. Lilian states,
“My experience has been life-changing. The kinds of opportunities that have been provided to me by ABN are not common.”
This Fellowship placement will strengthen her understanding of US laboratory standards, clinical documentation practices, and cross-functional collaboration — positioning her for long-term growth in pathology, research, or regulated laboratory environments.
We envision a day when the skills of immigrant professionals are highly valued and they can use their past experiences to build their careers, support their families, and make meaningful contributions to our society.