I was raised in a household of women. As the sole provider, my mother taught me at an early age that women can be independent, self-sufficient, and career-driven while achieving the same goals at equal or superior performance as men. Over half of all women leave science after the postdoctoral stage, and even fewer take leadership positions. Society artificially places demands on women, mothers, and individuals of diverse socioeconomic, ethnic, and gender backgrounds, redirecting these groups to leave STEM careers before achieving their full potential. This is a tremendous disservice to the greater progression of science. 

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Every scientist brings a unique perspective, talent, and drive to their research. To maximize research efforts, it is paramount that leaders create working environments that allow every mind to flourish and collaborate. This begins by leveling and expanding scientific communication. One working environment is not ideal for all. Simple changes to how science is conducted in a lab, at conferences, and in collaborations can drastically expand the spectrum of what neuroscience research is possible. As a woman in academic research, I have a strong voice, passion, and understanding of what improvements are needed to increase diversity in neuroscience research. I want to modernize mentorship, education, and access to resources, to enforce respect for everyone who wants to pursue a career in research. Science belongs to all of society. 

 

My goals include generating new supportive tools and networks that individuals can use to improve their working environments to meet diverse scientists' needs. I am actively working to move science away from merely recognizing these issues, impeding the inclusion of diversity in science, and ultimately limiting scientific advancement, to facilitating change that will advance the ability of all to generate high-quality research results.