Women Researchers Roundtable

The second INBT Women Researchers Roundtable was held in November and despite its virtual setting the one-hour event was packed with brilliant minds, hard-hitting topics, and opportunities for participants to share experiences. The panel included INBT’s own Soojung Claire Hur and Daniele Gilkes, as well as Tzipora Sarah Karin Eisinger at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, and was moderated by INBT PhD student Habben Desta.

Topics during the roundtable varied from balancing the positives and negatives of belonging to a minority in the lab to overcoming imposter syndrome that so often plagues students and early-career researchers. The panelists shared stories about adversity they have faced throughout their careers and how talking to one another and working under a mentor are keys to success. “It’s important that young women realize they’re not alone,” said Eisinger. “If they have a question or concern, so do other people and the best way to fight their doubts is to expose it for what it is…a very common way to waste time and energy.” Organizers intended the event as an opportunity for not only networking, but instilling a sense of empowerment and support among participants. In 2021, INBT hopes to have more events like the Women Researchers Roundtable and encourages more women within the institute and engineering school to participate in the next event.

“We should support and lift up other women whenever we have the opportunity,” said Gilkes.

Habben Desta Karin Eisinger

Claire Hur Daniele Gilkes