In this short interview series, we will be shining a light on inspiring women working in neuroscience and reflecting on their distinct backgrounds and career journeys. We explore job perks and challenges, developing new skills, inspirations, and goals for the future. Stay tuned to read new interviews every month from women in a range of neuroscience-related professions!
This month, we interviewed Tomi Akingbade, PhD student at the University of Cambridge and founder of the Black Women in Science network. Tomi currently works on the inflammatory response to protein aggregation in Alzheimer’s disease, and previously she completed an MSc in Neuroscience at the University of Nottingham which included a placement year at Leicester investigating peripheral biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases. Between her Masters and PhD, Tomi worked at the Dementia Research Institute UK as research technician for another biomarkers project.
Tell us about your current role/area of study, and what interested you about neuroscience initially.
My current role is as a PhD student researching inflammation in the context of neurodegenerative diseases. What interested me about neuroscience initially was the number of unknown questions in the field; I liked the idea that there were things left to discover and the constant questioning we’re able to do as a community.
What are the most enjoyable aspects of your job?
The freedom to explore new ideas and thoughts, and the longer timescale to commit to a project. I also enjoy being around people who are interested and passionate about their jobs.
What are the challenges?
Figuring out what a work/life balance looks like and implementing that. Also keeping up with literature – there’s always so much coming out, and it is difficult to know what to read and how much to take in. When multitasking with multiple projects, one always seems to get left behind.
What are you currently trying to get better at in your neuroscience job/studies?
Keeping up with admin and emails - they always pile up. Project management – keeping all the different streams of research going simultaneously.
Which women in your life inspire you, in neuroscience and beyond?
The women I’ve met through the black women in science network! Any woman who turns up and does their thing is inspiring to me.
What goals do you have for your career, and where do you see yourself in the next few years professionally?
Balance health inequalities and health outcomes in all avenues. I have no idea where I’ll be in the next few years, and I’m enjoying the luxury of not having to think about that right now.
What advice would you give to women at the early stages of their neuroscience careers?
Do what you find interesting. You can’t do good science if you’re not looking after yourself.
This article was written by Lauren Wallis and edited by Ailie McWhinnie. Interested in writing for WiNUK yourself? Contact us through the blog page and the editors will be in touch!
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