As Professor of Drug Delivery, my research team focuses on the development of controlled drug release products that address major issues in women’s healthcare. Most notably, in collaboration with the International Partnership for Microbicides (IPM), we have helped develop an antiretroviral-releasing vaginal ring device to help women protect themselves from HIV infection. The device recently completed Phase III clinical testing in Africa, and will marketed in 2017 as the first female-controlled prevention strategy for HIV. On a more personal note, I am married and have two teenage children. If I’m honest, I missed too much of my children growing up due to a preoccupation with work activities. Older, and hopefully wiser now, I am very keen to encourage younger academics to not only work hard at their career but also to ensure that work doesn’t take priority over family life. Getting the balance right is so important.