Introducing Dr. Cheryl Bell Tell us what do you do? I am a field applications scientist at Molecular Devices. In a nutshell, our company sells scientific research equipment to advance health through drug discovery. The product that I cover is a high-end microscope that can reduce the time it takes a scientist to generate data…
The Nerdy CEO presents: Women in STEM Series Introducing Program Manager Dr. Robin Walker
Meet Dr. Robin Walker
Meet Dr. Robin Walker
Tell us what do you do?
I am a Program Manager for U. S. Army S&T Acquisitions in the Medical Research and Development Command. In other words, I assist in the development of medical/technological solutions that assist the warfighter on the battlefield.
What is your educational background?
I have a Ph.D. in Plant Molecular Biology/ Biochemistry from the University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Medgar Evers College CUNY, New York City.
Why a STEM major?
I was always great in the sciences. In High school, I won the science award for the best academic performer in my entire graduating class. I then realized I had a passion for science and cultivated my passion throughout college and beyond. I also saw very few women of color in STEM fields. It motivates me continuously to be a role model for others that want to pursue this career path.
Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?
A higher education can afford you opportunities that would not be available to you without the higher education degree. For example, my current position requires that the incumbent possess a PHD. Higher education also allows you to focus on a specific topic area and become an expert in that topic area. The more education you have in some fields like STEM the more financial compensation you can demand.
Heroes: Who else deserves credit and has played a meaningful role in your life and/or career?
My heroes are a slew of teachers in high school who pushed me to reach my potential. I also acknowledge several professors in undergrad and grad school who assisted in my growth as a scientist and a contributor to numerous bodies of work that informed others on newly discovered information. I also salute my mom who worked tirelessly for years guiding me and promoting my love for science through the years of my education.
Skills from childhood: What are some important skill-sets to develop that you think is necessary to have in life??
I developed over the years a technique to help me retain information which consisted of me writing out notes and drawing diagrams. This technique is similar to generating a study guide that can be tailored to an individual’s specific learning style. It’s worked for me from grade school all the way through grad school. Study skills, time management, and setting goals will always be a toolset that will promote success.
Staying Motivated: How do you stay motivated when times get tough?
I always pray, meditate, and keep my mind on my target goals. These steps keep me grounded and help me stay focused on my ultimate goals for life. I also have support teams consisting of friends and family that help build me up when I’m feeling down.
What is your definition of success?
Success is accomplishing the goals that you have set for your life. Everyone has their own set of goals and only that individual can define if they’ve achieved those goals.
Any major accomplishments you would like to share?
Outside of finishing my degree, one other major accomplishment was becoming a mother. It’s a great joy to have an awesome experience to impact another person’s life. I’m so grateful to have the chance to pour into his life and assist him in accomplishing his life goals.
If you could tell your younger self ONE thing, what would it be?
I would say keep your eyes on the prize. Do not lose focus on others who will come as a distraction in your life.
One piece of advice you would give to up and coming aspiring students majoring in STEM?
I would tell all future STEM students to focus on topics you that hold your interest. Find out early what path you are seeking to take in this journey. I would also advise them to seek out a mentor and establish a support group for themselves. This will assist them greatly in achieving success.
This blog post is dedicated to highlighting some amazing women in STEM who are trailblazers in their respective professions. From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity. They continue to break barriers even till this day, which serves as a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology.
The Nerdy CEO presents: Women in STEM Series Introducing Public Health Scientist, Dr. Katie Bowden
Introducing Dr. Katie Bowden
Tell us what do you do?
I am the serology section lead in the Parasitic Diseases Branch at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). I oversee 4 employees within a section that performs three different types of blood tests to diagnose 14 different parasitic diseases. Since we work on patient samples, our tests are certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP). Additionally, I work closely with branch-level epidemiologists for consultation when information is requested about our assays. I also work with branch-level researchers to use novel and innovative technologies to improve and expand the tests we perform.
What is your educational background?
I have a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and a PhD in Genetics, both from the University of Georgia. My primary focus of my undergraduate and graduate research was microbial genetics and molecular biology.
Why a STEM major?
When I was a toddler, I wanted to be a surgeon. I originally decided to pursue a degree that would allow me to attend medical school, but I later chose to go into infectious disease research after taking a microbiology course that I was fascinated with. During my junior year of undergrad, I ended up changing my major from Biology to Microbiology, with intentions on attending graduate school.
Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?
A higher education is something no one can take away from you. I have been through many positions in my life and the one thing that has provided a foundation for success at all of them was my education.
Heroes: Who else deserves credit and has played a meaningful role in your life and/or career?
My father was a huge inspiration throughout my entire life. He always taught me to find a career that I loved and was passionate about. My father sacrificed a lot for our family and inspired me to become the independent, self-sufficient, successful woman that I have become.
Skills from childhood: What are some important skill-sets to develop that you think is necessary to have in life?
Critical thinking, time management, flexibility and interpersonal skills are extremely important. Critical thinking will allow you to tackle any challenge you face.
Time management and flexibility, provides you the abilities to be efficient with your time, work smarter, and also manage unforeseen situations that arise that could have major impacts on your work.
I have always been interested in psychology and understanding different personality types and what motivates different types of people have both helped me become a better supervisor for my staff.
Staying Motivated: How do you stay motivated when times get tough?
I try to move past the small stuff and focus on the bigger picture. Usually things get tough when I get stuck in the weeds and put focus and attention on little things that don’t have that great of an impact on the bigger picture. It can be so easy to lose track of our goals and sometimes ourselves. When you focus on the prize, you’ll be able to move in the direction that’s best for you.
What is your definition of success?
Success to me means creating a life that will allow you to keep growing as a person and in your career. Having that ability will make your possibilities endless.
Any major accomplishments you would like to share?
I am very proud that, in my 7 years at CDC coming straight from my PhD, I have become a full-time employee and obtained a position where I get to manage some amazingly brilliant people that teach me new things every day. I am truly blessed and extremely grateful for these accomplishments and the people that have helped me along the way.
If you could tell your younger self ONE thing, what would it be?
Do what you love, don’t let anyone tell you what you can, can’t, should, or shouldn’t do.
One piece of advice you would give to up and coming aspiring students majoring in STEM?
Never be afraid to learn, even if it is from a mistake you make. I used to be terrified of messing up and now I see it as a learning opportunity and I truly embrace those moments.
This blog post is dedicated to highlighting amazing women in STEM who are trailblazers in their respective professions. From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity. They continue to break barriers even till this day, which serves as a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology.
The Nerdy CEO presents: Women in STEM Series Introducing Professor Dr. Chanelle Adams-Griffin
Meet Dr. Chanelle Adams-Griffin
Meet Dr. Chanelle Adams-Griffin
Tell us what do you do?
I am an educator in several regards, but currently hold a faculty position as a Professional Educator of Biology at Western New England University in Springfield, MA.
What is your educational background?
I am a first time college graduate in my family. I have a B.S. in Biology from Stillman College, Tuscaloosa, AL., a M.S. in Microbiology from the University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, and a PhD in Food Microbiology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
Why a STEM major?
Growing up, the measure of success in my neighborhood was becoming a doctor or a lawyer. I was always good at math, but science came naturally (I never had to study or work hard at it), so seeing that I was interested in medicine and how it is used to help heal people, I thought I’d give Biology a try.
Can you briefly explain the importance of a higher education?
I live by the mantra that the one thing no one can ever take from you is your education (knowledge). They can cast you into a box based on your life experiences, and doubt your abilities, but when you can back things with concrete evidence noting will refute it.
Heroes: Who else deserves credit and has played a meaningful role in your life and/or career?
Aside from family, Dr. Lee A. Aggison, Jr. – the first person to introduce me to independent laboratory research and build my self-confidence. Dr. Ruth A. Washington, wife of Dr. Aggison. – Success personified is what I call her. When I stepped on the campus of Stillman College she was what I envisioned myself to be…. A black female excelling in a male dominated field.
Skills from childhood: What are some important skill-sets to develop that you think is necessary to have in life??
Learn to fail; it’s OK – I came across a sign one day which read: FAIL = First Attempt In Learning. There’s no way you can know everything about something that’s being introduced for the first time. Don’t exhaust your energy trying to please others. This is YOUR life, so go after whatever it is that YOU desire. Don’t just wish for it but work for it! “If you want something you’ve never had. You must be willing to do something you’ve never done.” – Unknown
Staying Motivated: How do you stay motivated when times get tough?
I remember those who have helped me get to where I am today. In me asking how can I ever repay you, the only response I’ve ever received is to pay it forward. Make sure you help someone in every way imaginable to attain their highest potential.
What is your definition of success?
During graduate school, I had a hand made sign on my desk: Success is 99% failure. So, success to me is commitment, perseverance, determination. It is not merely a measure of you “making it” – which is what I thought as a child, but the continual pursuit of being better. Having the wherewithal to know that success is an evolutionary process whose path changes as you grow.
Any major accomplishments you would like to share?
My education has opened doors for me in every area of employment; I’ve worked in Industry, government and academia.
If you could tell your younger self ONE thing, what would it be?
You don’t have to carry the world on your shoulders, but your contributions to society will be impactful!
One piece of advice you would give to up and coming aspiring students majoring in STEM?
Trust the process!
This blog post is dedicated to highlighting some amazing women in STEM who are trailblazers in their respective professions. From scientists, to professors, and biomedical engineers, these women bring in fresh perspectives, talent, and creativity. They continue to break barriers even till this day, which serves as a reminder that women and girls play a critical role in science and technology.
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