Interwoven 8: From Laboratory to Freelance: Sarah Neilson on Reinventing a Career in Medical Writing

This episode of Interwoven traces the path of Sarah Neilson, founder of Green Pen Solutions, as she transitions from scientific research to entrepreneurship. Sarah Neilson began her professional life immersed in postdoctoral research after completing her PhD, a journey marked by hard work but also mounting uncertainty about her long-term direction. She found herself searching for a new way to apply her scientific skills, ultimately stumbling upon the little-known but growing field of medical writing.

What followed wasn’t the result of a bold leap, but rather a gradual realisation. Sarah Neilson spent over a decade honing her craft and identity within an established medical communications agency, never planning to strike out on her own. Yet, over time, an accumulation of unfulfilled ambitions and a desire for greater impact nudged her toward independence. Founding her own business brought new challenges: letting go of perfectionism, facing industry downturns, and learning to treat each decision as an experiment rather than a test of character.

Throughout her transition, Sarah Neilson drew deeply on the strengths and habits forged during her research career: analytical thinking, attention to detail, resilience, and a willingness to treat setbacks as information rather than failure. She now helps others navigate this transition, candidly discussing not just the technical but the emotional side of freelancing: overcoming self-doubt, building community, and finding satisfaction in supporting others’ growth.

Listeners wondering if they too can change course will find practical hope in Sarah Neilson’s experience. You don’t need a flawless plan from day one, just curiosity, a willingness to adapt, and the courage to experiment until you discover what fits.