Ruth Wheeler

"Ruth works for a scientific organisation, researching the diagnosis of genetic disorders.Ruth’s job suits her because she is friendly and likes to help people by doing something practical, which really fits the ‘Service provider’ type. She is methodical and organised and pays attention to detail, which matches well with the ‘Quality Controller’ type and is essential when working with patient data. Ruth also works well as part of a team and likes to come up with the right answer which suits the ‘Investigator’ type."

"Ruth works to help diagnose and find more information about genetic disorders – illnesses that are inherited. This research is useful to help diagnose illnesses and to help prevent disorders being passed on, as well as assisting in managing disorders.Ruth does this by analysing DNA and interpreting results, and then writes reports about her findings. She also supervises junior staff members. The information Ruth finds out is then used by patients and their families to manage their conditions and improve their quality of life. She really loves helping patients and learning more about genetic diseases. Ruth is proud to have been an integral part of the team which identified the gene involved in a very rare disorder."

"After completing a PhD in Molecular Biology, Ruth had a couple of post-doctoral research fellowships in the field of human genetics working in an academic laboratory for 11 years. Her starting salary was about £25,000. She eventually realised that she loved the work but wanted to impact on patients more directly so decided to switch to a clinical role. She applied for a post in a hospital laboratory and her experience made her an ideal candidate."

"Ruth enjoys researching genealogy, and going running, and visiting museums and art galleries. She can also tap dance and even has an adult silver medal!In her job, Ruth has the opportunity to attend lots of conferences, including many that are overseas. Ruth really loves her current role, so in the future she would like to see herself in a very similar position, maybe at a more senior level."