Intro
Science moves forward thanks to people who dare. They explore the unknown, make innovation relevant to people’s lives, and create a positive impact. On my Scientific Marketing Mix blog, I share their stories and motivations through short but insightful interviews. This time, I’m especially happy to interview Dr. Gwendoline Thiery. We first met during our PhD years, became friends, and then life took us on different paths. Over the years, I followed her career on LinkedIn, impressed by her journey from analytical chemistry to human microbiome research and micronutrition consulting. Speaking with her again after so long reminded me why I valued her friendship. She’s not only a talented scientist, but also a kind and inspiring person.
I hope you enjoy the interview with Gwendoline as much as I did.
Q1: You started your scientific journey in analytical chemistry, did a postdoctoral fellowship at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, and later one at Harvard Medical School in Boston, and now focus on the human microbiome and micronutrition. What motivated this transition from academic research to independent consulting?
“Honestly, it’s been a combination of life experiences and the incredible people I’ve met along the way. I’m not a calculating person; I’ve always let science and curiosity guide me. I go where my heart and my mind feel most alive. I know that can be hard for some to understand. Society doesn’t always encourage us to follow our heart, but I try to do it as much as I can.”
Q2: You’ve trained in both microbiota and micronutrition at Sorbonne University and Université Paris Cité. What drew you to these two fields, and how do they complement each other in your work today?
“Curiosity first and foremost. Micronutrition and the microbiota are deeply connected. Our lifestyle and diet directly influence our microbial ecosystem, and understanding one naturally enriches the other. It’s a dynamic relationship that’s central to my work, especially when I meet with people for personalized consultations..”
Q3: You describe your work as “Functional Microbiome Analysis and Micronutrition Consulting” – a field many may have heard about but don’t fully understand. What exactly do you do, and what kinds of questions do your clients bring to you?
“I see my role as bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and everyday life. I help people understand and rebalance their metabolism, always grounded in science. The main question my clients ask is: “How does it work?” They want to understand the mechanism behind it. I believe that’s the essential first step to maintaining good health. Knowledge truly is everything.
When I talk about the “functional microbiome,” I’m referring to the gut’s own chemical factory. Our gut bacteria transform dietary fibers into short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, propionate and acetate, and other bioactive compounds essential to human health. This microbial activity is shaped by what we eat and how we live. Measuring these bacterial products offers a powerful path toward predictive, precise and personalized medicine, shaping the future of healthcare. I believe we are on the brink of a new era in medicine driven by functional microbiome analysis.”
Q4: The human microbiome is everywhere in science and media. From your point of view, what are the biggest misconceptions and what do you wish more people understood?
“It’s definitely a hot topic right now, and while it holds tremendous promise, we need to keep our feet on the ground. It’s natural that some businesses want to ride the wave, but the truth is the science isn’t yet ready for routine, fully reliable diagnostics.
That said, the future is incredibly exciting. Microbiome research will allow us to predict disease before symptoms even appear, thanks to ultra-precise functional analysis. The technology is already here. What’s missing are the ultra-sensitive analytical methods to make it a reality.
By measuring bacterial products, we open the door to predictive, precise and personalized medicine. I believe the most important breakthroughs will come from combining techniques, particularly mass spectrometry and sequencing. We’re standing right at the threshold of a new medical era, one driven by functional microbiome analysis. Patience is key, but we are working intensively, and I believe the progress we’re all waiting for will arrive sooner than most people expect.”
Q5: Leaving academia to become a freelance expert is a big move. What challenges did you face, and what made you confident it was the right fit for you?
“I don’t really see it as “leaving” academia. I’m still a scientist and a researcher, and my priority is to keep an open mind and work where I have the freedom to pursue meaningful projects.”
Q6: You’re not only a scientist, but also a mother of three. How has parenthood shaped your approach to work, time, and priorities?
“My three children keep me balanced and grounded. They understand that science is part of who I am, and in some ways it makes me a better mother. And perhaps being a mother makes me a better scientist. There’s a constant exchange between the two roles, each one feeds the other.”
Q7: What advice would you give to other scientists, especially women or parents, who are considering becoming freelance consultants?
“Follow your heart. Do what you love, what challenges you and what makes you happy. Don’t take on projects out of obligation or fear of failure. Choose the path that inspires you.”
Q8: And finally: Scientific innovation, for you, is above all about…
“For me, it’s about passion and purpose. I believe that developing new analytical methods, particularly in analytical chemistry, has the power to profoundly improve health and help people maintain their well-being.
I like to conclude with a quote from Marie Curie: “I am one of those who believe that science holds great beauty.” It’s a belief that has guided my entire career.”