Yiota Veloudi (Cyprus)

What is your role at your work?

I contribute to research grant writing and develop and manage cardiovascular health interventions and research projects, focusing on lifestyle modifications and genetic factors, to improve cardiovascular outcomes among Cypriots.

How did you get interested in your career path?

Inspired by the impact of lifestyle on health, I pursued research in exercise science. Under Prof. James Sharman’s mentorship at the Menzies Institute, my interest in cardiovascular research grew, leading to a PhD focused on Blood Pressure Variability and its clinical implications.

What are you most proud of in your career or otherwise?

I am most proud of my perseverance in overcoming a career gap and returning to research after moving back to Cyprus.

What important career challenges have you faced and how did you overcome them?

Returning to Cyprus from Australia, I faced a significant career gap due to maternity leave and the lack of local cardiovascular research groups. I overcame these challenges by creating new research collaborations and initiatives, successfully reestablishing my research career.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Believe in your resilience and adaptability. Embrace challenges as growth opportunities, seek diverse experiences, and don’t fear stepping out of your comfort zone. Trust that perseverance will open unexpected doors.

Highlight your most significant research contributions and publications (3-5) – if relevant to you.

• Veloudi et al. doi: 10.1093/ajh/hpw037.
• Veloudi et al. doi: 10.1177/1479164116633424.
• Veloudi et al. doi: 10.1097/HJH.0000000000001227.
• Veloudi et al. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2015.10.007.
• Veloudi et al. doi: 10.1097/HJH.0000000000001606.

Have you had any significant career mentors? If yes, please provide further details.

Yes, I have been extremely fortunate to have inspiring mentors. Prof. James Sharman and Prof. Leigh Blizzard were incredibly supportive during my time in Australia, and Prof. Constantinos Deltas is providing invaluable guidance in Cyprus. Their mentorship has greatly shaped my research career and expertise.

How can we support the next generation of women scientists?

We can support the next generation of women scientists by providing mentorship, promoting work-life balance, especially for women returning to research after starting a family, and fostering an inclusive environment that encourages innovation and resilience.