2025

WICTO x GCI Seminar 📖
WICTO and GCI will be hosting Dr. Nadine Borduas-Dedekind from the University of British Columbia! An abstract for this talk will be posted on a later date. A roundtable discussion will be held directly after the talk, with lunch provided. Sign up for the roundtable using the link below.
Seminar date: Monday, September 29 at 10:00am – 11:00am EST
Location: Davenport Seminar Room East
Roundtable discussion date: Monday, September 29 at 11:00am – 12:30pm EST
Location: LM319 (3rd floor Enviromental Chemistry Lounge)
Sign-up form: https://forms.gle/htN8mRYBPKLzfmk59
Title: Mutual Allostery: A Mechanism to Regulate RNA Biology
Abstract: In this seminar, I reflect on the twists and turns of my academic career, tracing a path from organic to atmospheric chemistry and through roles in industry, government, consulting, and academia. Along the way, I have asked myself questions that many scientists face, including (1) practical questions like how to decide which group to join, how to manage student-supervisor interactions, how to write manuscripts and proposals, as well as (2) life questions like how to balance research with life choices, how to choose a career path, how to time manage, etc. I will share the “real story” of my career, including the challenges of uncertainty, burnout, and identity in science, as well as the advice and lessons that shaped my decisions. This journey has influences and informed on my mentorship style as a professor and mentor today. My goal with this seminar is to provide an honest perspective on the realities of building a scientific career, the importance of resilience and community, and the opportunities to contribute meaningfully to science and society, while encouraging a discussion on diversity, equity, and the personal dimensions of life in academia. I’m looking forward to an engaging discussion!