Delving into the realm of research and peer review, we were fortunate to connect with Prof. Dr. Ewa Tomaszewska, the recent winner of the Biomedicines Outstanding Reviewer Award 2023. As we explore her insights, we gain a perspective from a female researcher, shedding light on the diverse voices shaping academia today.

The following is an interview with Prof. Dr. Ewa Tomaszewska:

1. Could you please tell us a little more about yourself and your current research?
I am a long-time academic and teaching staff member and a physiologist. I work at the Department of Animal Physiology at the University of Life Sciences in Lublin. I am involved in a wide range of research topics, as seen in my work. However, my passion lies in prenatal programming, which I pursued after personal experiences related to pregnancy. Currently, I am focusing on conducting planned analyses from several experiments carried out over the past three years. These experiments were conducted on rats, pigs, and birds as animal models. I always strive to gather experimental material in a way that ensures the animals that have been euthanized do not give their lives in vain. Scientific work requires not only passion and dedication but also responsibility and empathy. Therefore, I endeavor to collaborate with various specialists and publish jointly across various fields.

2. Could you please share your sentiments about winning the award with us?
I am someone who has not achieved many awards in life. So, there is a moment of disbelief at first, followed by immense joy that is difficult to describe. It is a great honor and distinction to be chosen among many people from around the world. It is a culmination of work that brings joy, but the award gives it a different dimension. It is a wonderful feeling to see that others recognize and appreciate the efforts.

3. What initially drew you to become a reviewer for MDPI Biomedicines?
I have been a reviewer for MDPI since 11 September 2017, and Biomedicines since 30 December 2022. I actively participate in reviewing articles for various journals. Naturally, the subject matter of the papers I review must fall within my area of expertise. Being a physiologist, it is possible that I am able to tackle diverse challenges. Additionally, I collaborate with a medical university, conducting a variety of research together. This collaboration allows us to approach topics from different perspectives.

4. Could you share some insights into your approach to reviewing manuscripts? How do you balance thoroughness with efficiency?
I am not sure if I can consider myself precise and efficient. I have been working for thirty years. I have numerous publications and have conducted many reviews (approximately 130 per year in recent years). By writing scientific papers, responding to reviews, and reviewing other papers, I am able to systematically learn what to focus on and what an ideally prepared manuscript should look like. This practice of writing and reviewing allows me to continuously improve my skills and shape my perception of an ideally prepared experiment and manuscript. An additional advantage is the opportunity to work in a team with individuals possessing a broad knowledge base, who always provide me with support. When I encounter dilemmas regarding methodology or statistics, I can always count on their assistance. On the other hand, I realize that authors expect feedback just as I do from other reviewers. Therefore, I strive not to postpone reviews. It may contribute to my efficiency.

5. How do you believe your experience as a woman in this biomedical field has contributed to your success and the advancements you have made in your research?
I believe that being a woman has influenced many aspects of my journey. My experience as a woman has shaped everything. My research and passion focus on prenatal programming, as I mentioned before. I have taken on research challenges that bridge veterinary and medical sciences, requiring flexibility of thought. However, there is another question: can I be considered a successful woman? Honestly, I am not sure. I have never looked at myself in that way. I simply work in the field of science, and my work is quite intensive because it is my passion. I love what I do.

6. What advice would you offer to other aspiring female researchers in the field or facing similar challenges?
Never give up. Throughout my life, I have experienced various good and bad moments, and perhaps there are more ahead of me, but one must never give up. Take a moment to slow down, balance ambitions and strengths, take care of your family, and then resume action with new energy and determination. Regardless of what the future holds, it is important to adhere to these values and continue on the path with determination and optimism.