Marissa Lemus
“I believe that when you follow what you are passionate about, challenges become easier to overcome. Embrace the uniqueness of your background as a valuable asset.”
I was born and raised in Guatemala, where my curiosity for science began. Moving to Boston with just $20 and my one-year-old son, I have built my life around determination and a passion for discovery. I love anything related to biological pathways and how science can be used to improve lives. I recently completed my master's in biotechnology and am pursuing a career in cell process development. Beyond the lab, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, and I’m always eager to share my knowledge and experiences with others. I am a biotechnologist.
I graduated with a Master's in Biotechnology from Northeastern University, where I completed a co-op at Prime Medicine, working in cell process development. My career has spanned research and development, manufacturing, and now cell process development—a field I find to be the perfect blend of science and real-world impact. My work focuses on the intersection of these areas, and I am committed to advancing the biotechnology field to make a tangible difference in human health and innovation.
My passion for science is deeply rooted in curiosity and a love for understanding biological pathways. I grew up on a farm in Guatemala, where I was constantly experimenting and exploring. My grandmother, who raised six children on her own, instilled in me the value of helping others, which I carry into my work today. Knowing that my work can positively impact lives gives me a great sense of purpose.
My career in science began with a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering. I was involved in the first DNA and molecular-level studies in Guatemala before moving to the United States with my one-year-old son. The transition was challenging. I spent ten years in survival mode, working in retail while raising my son and pursuing my education. Despite the obstacles, I completed my associate degree at Bunker Hill Community College, followed by bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northeastern. My journey, built on a foundation of resilience and determination, has led me to a rewarding career in biotechnology.
Beyond my work, I love spending time with friends and family, networking within the industry, and blending professional growth with personal connections. After many years of balancing work, school, and parenting, I now enjoy staying home and relaxing.
Aside from my dedication to my career and the intense focus required in my field, I cherish my downtime. One of my most surprising traditions is spending entire days during the holidays unplugged and immersed in movies. It happens twice a year for Christmas Day and for New Year's, but I make sure I talk to my family on Christmas Eve. I've been doing it for probably around five years now. It’s a way for me to recharge and reconnect with myself after a year of hard work.
As my son prepares for college, I always tell him to let his passion guide his path. When you follow what you are passionate about, challenges become easier to overcome. That's something that I follow. I know I can do things because I've lived through hardship. I’ve had a bumpy journey, and I think my unique path is an asset. So, embrace the uniqueness of your background as a valuable asset. In science, every challenge is an opportunity to learn new things and to advance. Things may not work properly the first time, but you have to keep going and see those challenges and mistakes as opportunities. This mindset helped me navigate the ups and downs enthusiastically and purposefully.
