About Salvatore Mc Donagh

I am 40 years old, married to Brenda, and we have a lovely 16 month old daughter, Lily. We live in the tiny village of Corrandulla (which means "Where the Swan Turns" in Irish) near Galway City on the west coast of Ireland.

After 18 years in the Information Technology industry, during which time I worked for (amongst several others) Sun, EDS, Iomega and Cobalt Networks, I changed career. I moved from the Netherlands to Ireland in 2001 and enrolled at the National University of Ireland to study for an undergraduate degree in Biotechnology. I completed the course in 2006 receiving a first class honours BSc degree.

Now I am a postgraduate student researching the molecular mechanisms of adult stem cell differentiation in the repair of cartilage in arthritis. I expect to complete my PhD in late 2009, shortly after I turn 42. It will have taken me over seven years to complete the journey to my new career as a scientist.

Throughout the transition I have enjoyed myself, and am delighted at learning something new almost every day. I've made many new friends of all ages and stages of their scientific careers, who have provided me with constant encouragement, advice and support. I have the flexibility to spend time with my family, and a great group of intelligent, good humored friends to work with and learn from. I laugh out loud a lot, often and every day of the week, at work and at home. I am incredibly grateful and feel privileged and lucky to be so fortunate.

None of this would have happened had I continued to procrastinate changing career. As it was I took five years of wrestling with myself to make decision and take the risk of losing the excellent salary and security of my IT career. It was the best decision I ever made, and I have never once looked back with regret.

I hope that my experience will encourage you to find the self determination and courage to take the big step, choose your true calling and go for it.