Author: [AUTHOR] Published on 3/1/2026 12:00:00 AM
Tu Mai, PhD, Senior Principal Scientist, Genentech, Inc., San Francisco, California
What is your favorite part of being a Biologics Community Vice Chair?
It is an honor to serve as the vice chair of the Biologics Community! My favorite part is the invaluable opportunity to deeply connect with and learn from the diverse perspectives and extensive expertise not only within this specific Community, but also across the broader ASCPT society. I am excited and committed to helping build a vibrant and inclusive Community that is especially welcoming to new members. My vision is for a space where our scientists feel empowered, collaborate on innovative solutions, and collectively advance the field of biologics, fostering a supportive environment for growth and mutual learning.
What is the most important leadership lesson you have learned the hard way?
The most important leadership lesson I have learned is that doing good work is not enough if you do not also develop the skills to advocate effectively for yourself and your team. Very early on in my career, I mistakenly believed that simply keeping my head down and letting the results speak for themselves would be sufficient. I have since learned that true leadership requires not just technical expertise, but also emotional clarity: knowing when to speak up, when to listen, and doing so with an open mind, especially to perspectives that challenge my own. I am still learning, and I firmly believe that it is a lifelong lesson that requires constant practice and self-reflection.
Who has inspired you in your career?
My greatest career inspiration has always been my parents. My mother grew up in a small rural village in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam, and against incredible odds, she became a cardiologist. She is still practicing today and witnessing her lifelong commitment to learning and continuously improving herself as a physician to better serve her community has deeply shaped my own values as a scientist. My father is a dermatologist who chose not to chase prestige or bureaucracy but instead dedicated his career to helping HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis patients in underserved communities along the Mekong Delta. Watching their work, rooted in service and humility, consistently reminds me to stay grounded, as both a scientist and as a person.
How do you keep focused and motivated?
I am very goal-oriented, so I stay focused and motivated by setting achievable goals, breaking down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, and regularly reflecting on my progress. This systematic approach helps me maintain momentum and a clear sense of direction.
When you are not working, how do you spend your free time?
I am a LEGO enthusiast, so in my free time, I am often working on my LEGO sets or trying to manipulate cake protocols to increase their protein content while still making them taste like cakes – they do not, unfortunately! I also enjoy weight lifting and biking, which help me stay active and de-stress.
Dr. Mai has been a member of ASCPT since 2021.
