3 minutes

Dr Rosa Morra

Rosa was a member of Prosper's second pilot cohort while working at the University of Manchester. She now works for EMQN, a leading global provider of quality assurance tools and knowledge to the human molecular pathology and genomics testing community.

We spoke with Rosa to learn more about her career journey and experience with Prosper.

Role on starting Prosper cohort

Research Fellow within the Biological and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Manchester

Current role

Principal Scientific Programme Manager at EMQN CIC

Case study conducted

June 2025

What is your current role?

I’m currently working as a Principal Scientific Programme Manager at EMQN CIC.

EMQN provides quality assurance tools and knowledge to the human genomic testing community through External Quality Assessment (EQA) schemes. This guarantees the best possible molecular diagnostic procedure, analytical performance, and clinical interpretation.

What does it involve?

My role involves leading and managing a team responsible for delivering high-quality, ISO 17043-accredited, genomics-based External Quality Assessment (EQA) services. I also contribute to various aspects of our Quality Management System, including audits, non-conformances, and document control.

How has your career journey beyond academia progressed so far?

Very well! I joined EMQN in October 2023 as a Scientific Programme Manager and was promoted to Principal Scientific Programme Manager in May 2025.

The transition has been both rewarding and full of professional growth opportunities.

Is there anything you picked up from Prosper that you're still applying in terms of your professional development?

Absolutely. One key takeaway has been the importance of expanding and nurturing a professional network.

For instance, I’ve become more active on platforms like LinkedIn, which has been incredibly useful for staying connected, visible, and engaged with developments in the field.

How have you found the transition from academia to a non-academic setting?

Surprisingly smooth. I’ve come to appreciate how many transferable skills academia provides — such as problem-solving, project management, critical thinking, and adaptability. These have been instrumental in helping me settle quickly into the private sector.

What are your future career plans?

I aim to continue growing in my current role—developing new leadership and strategic skills, deepening my understanding of quality systems, and broadening my impact within the genomics and healthcare quality sector.

What advice would you give to a postdoc in your former position, who might be interested in making a similar switch/entering your sector?

Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.

Even if you find yourself in a completely new area or a more structured environment than academia, the transferable skills you’ve developed during your PhD and postdoc — such as resilience, independence, communication, and problem-solving — will serve you well and ease the transition.

And also remember that these days, one of the major perks of academia — flexible working — applies to the private sector too!