Rita Hannawayya is a Research Manager & Laboratory Technician at the Cobo Laboratory at the University of Calgary. She holds a Bachelor of Science Honours in Cellular, Molecular, and Microbial Biology from the same institution. Hannawayya has resiliently built a strong career in STEM, exemplifying professional excellence through her remarkable scientific maturity, technical mastery, and leadership.

As a young professional in academia, Hannawayya’s expertise in complex research models and proficiency in a wide range of techniques has contributed to studies on inflammatory conditions in the guts of preterm infants, helping advance the understanding of disease mechanisms while identifying novel targets for timely diagnosis, intervention, and improved management practices in neonatal care. Hannawayya’s meticulous attention to detail, commitment to scientific rigor, and capacity to balance technical and managerial responsibilities make her a key member of the Cobo research team and a model of professional excellence.

Cultivating a supportive and inclusive environment within the Cobo Laboratory, Hannawayya mentors graduate and undergraduate students with patience, empathy, and genuine investment in their growth, ensuring that each trainee feels valued and capable. Her leadership style prioritizes psychological safety, collaboration, and shared learning, qualities that are especially impactful for women and underrepresented trainees navigating scientific spaces.

Hannawayya consistently advocates for equitable opportunities, encourages confidence in younger women scientists, and models a balanced, humane approach to research culture. Her commitment to uplifting others extends beyond technical guidance; she fosters community, belonging, and empowerment, making her not only a scientific leader but a compassionate force for positive change in her field.

Hannawayya’s resilience shows up in the way she has built her STEM career where women are still underrepresented. As a young woman and first-generation Canadian, she had to learn an unfamiliar academic system, create her own networks, and prove herself in spaces where women are often overlooked. Instead of being discouraged, she pushed forward with determination, curiosity, and a strong sense of purpose.

The cultural transitions, high expectations, and steep learning curves Hannawayya had to navigate simultaneously, carried responsibilities many peers did not have to shoulder. She persisted through uncertainty, proving herself in spaces where women are often required to work twice as hard for recognition. Her determination propelled her to excel academically and professionally, stepping into leadership roles early in her career and expanding the path for the women who follow.