In the latest episode of the RACE in STEM podcast, host Steve Fuller sits down with Rachel Osei, a biomedical scientist and Programme Manager at the NIHR (National Institute for Health and Care Research), for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about navigating identity, overcoming obstacles, and thriving in the world of STEM.
Rachel’s story is one of persistence, cultural navigation, and unshakeable purpose. As a Ghanaian-Dutch girl growing up in the UK, she learned to move between worlds often having to find her voice and place in environments where she didn’t initially see herself reflected. From learning English from scratch as a child to discovering her passion for science in Year 9, Rachel’s early experiences shaped her resilience and determination.
Throughout the episode, she reflects on the challenges of academic setbacks, the barriers of breaking into health research without traditional networks, and the vital role of mentorship, faith, and community in her journey. Rachel’s path into biomedical science wasn’t linear, but it was intentional. Her story is a testament to what’s possible when talent meets tenacity, and when underrepresented voices are empowered to rise.
This episode is more than a career profile it’s a candid and inspiring look at what it means to build a career at the intersection of race, identity, and ambition in STEM. Rachel’s honesty and insights offer encouragement for anyone forging their own path in science, especially those who feel unseen in mainstream narratives.
Listen now to hear how Rachel is helping reshape the face of science, one barrier at a time.