Read the stories of some of our researchers, as they navigate the rewards and challenges along their academic journeys.
Dr Soyon Hong
“Like many other full-time parents who are also full-time scientists, I am constantly juggling various tasks and at times feeling overwhelmed to balance them all like a Jenga puzzle. But I am super blessed that I have an amazing life partner who is a critical enabler of my career. I am also thankful to have a lab who genuinely care for and support each other and me and take ownership. It really takes a village and a collaborative team effort for scientific discoveries, and I am only a part of the reason we are getting this early recognition.”
Dr Daniel Erskine
“I love being a dementia researcher, and that is what makes it possible to deal with the difficulties associated with working in research whilst also trying to have some sort of life… I am incredibly proud that ARUK has actively led an initiative to improve job security and working conditions for researchers, especially ECRs, and I am a member of the ECR Working Group that has discussed and planned these changes.”
Dr Gargi Banerjee
“As a clinician researcher, I combine medical training towards becoming a consultant in my chosen speciality (Neurology) with research… having a range of role models with a diverse range of personal experiences is so critical. I have learnt that mentorship can mean many things, and that having different mentors to help you with different challenges of the ECR period - including personal ones - can be incredibly important.”
Prof Li Su
“I knew that I am very independent because I have almost single-handedly navigated through many difficult situations, both in research and life in general as a young migrant arriving here alone from Asia…What has helped me along the “bumpy road” was: 1) being persistent; 2) being a good citizen and being open; 3) research like many other things in life is a messy business – be resilient and have a sense of humour!”
Prof Tammaryn Lashley
“Looking back over the last twenty years, I never set out to become Professor of Neuroscience. I have enjoyed the research that I have been undertaking and worked hard to be the best scientist that I can be, whilst collaborating and building my scientific network… My journey to Professor certainly would not have been possible without the strong mentorship and support that I have received over the years.”
