SciLifeLab Voices: Sara Díaz Moreno

Hi Sara, you work as lab safety coordinator at SciLifeLab Campus Solna, what is the scope of that responsibility?

I assist research groups and infrastructure facilities in implementing proper lab safety and overall workplace safety practices. That includes to work in compliance with regulations from the Swedish Work Environment Authority (Arbetsmiljöverket) and other agencies. My primary focus is on promoting lab safety, but also fire safety, and other critical aspects of the physical work environment.

My responsibilities include conducting safety introductions, coordinating safety inspections, updating routines, and addressing a wide range of safety and work environment inquiries. I aim to create a safety-conscious culture and make sure everyone feels confident about working safely.

When do you feel proud at work?

I feel proud at work when I see group leaders investing time in their employees’ safety and striving to do their best. Then, I think the system works. I enjoy helping them find the right ways to support their teams. This teamwork towards a safer work environment is really rewarding.

What is your professional background?

I am a molecular biologist by training. I studied in Malaga, Spain – which is where I come from –  and I also defended my PhD thesis there. For my PhD I did a comparative study of gene expression across various types of wood to identify genes influencing wood properties. I moved to Sweden and started at KTH as a postdoc in 2011. Later, I became more interested in lab safety and safety routines and took more responsibility in this area. I started at SciLifeLab in December 2020. Today, I am studying a master’s program in occupational health and safety, to broaden my skills.

What is the best – and worst – with your job?

I love networking with colleagues in my field, exchanging experiences, and learning new ways to improve lab safety together. Also, being part of a great team at Site Support makes my days easier and more enjoyable.

On the other hand, the toughest part is dealing with incidents. Fortunately, they don’t happen often, but when they do occur, it serves as a reminder that something has gone wrong.

What do you like to do on a day off?

I enjoy having fika with friends and family – I like sweets, and also enjoy baking when I have the time. I like the challenge to adapt recipes so that they can be made without milk and egg, carrot cake is a favourite!

And I have also started doing yoga at home through an online program that I have access to thanks to the KTH health care allowance – friskvårdsbidrag. When the weather is nice, I like to go for a run, but unfortunately, it does not happen very often.