Lecturer at Aston University
In the academic world I have encountered some of the most supportive, generous, intelligent people I have ever come across. There are perceived set-backs relating to gender biases because it is a scientific field, but you should always persevere if it's important to you. The work you do will make a difference and there are so many opportunities to develop both as a professional and as a person. My greatest opportunities have come from simply being confident enough to ask for experiences that I consider myself appropriate for, or experiences that would benefit me (such as an opportunity to speak at another Institution or work with a colleague). Essentially, it's impossible to regret fighting for the things you want out of life.
About Samantha...
Who am I?
"Coach is a really fitting personality, as it essentially describes teaching qualities such as listening and understanding and helping people get what they need. The Influencer has skills, such as being able to explain things and making sure things are evidence based, again, both extremely useful in teaching. Innovator has elements such as confidence and being a natural leader, which is important in my environment. Leading, innovating, and influencing are good qualities to have! "
What do I do?
"Designing teaching material, writing reports, running experiments, discussions with collaborators and reading scientific papers. I enjoy the research because I'm naturally inquisitive and full of questions so it's satisfying to try to answer some of them. The teaching fills me with a great satisfaction as my impact is easily measured against student performance and engagement. I also like presenting my research nationally and internationally at conferences as it opens up collaboration and networking opportunities. "
How did I get here?
"My Dad is my biggest inspiration. He loved science and always wanted me to love it too. He also suffered from a physical disability but he still raised 3 children and maintained a full-time job after my Mum passed away. He was curious, strong, and motivated and I will always endeavour to be like him. "
The life I live
"I'm an avid freelance medical illustrator which offers me the opportunity to create images for textbooks and scientific journals. I also occasionally design tattoos and EP covers for local bands! Finally, I enjoy walking in the Yorkshire Dales, going to the gym, and drinking lots of tea. "
My typical day
"A typical day will consist of research (design, run, analyse, write up experiments) and teaching (university students)."
My qualifications
"Secondary education (GCSE/O-Levels) Post secondary education (College, A-levels, NVQ3 or equivalent) A Level: Art, Graphic Design, Religious Studies, Psychology Undergraduate degree (BSc, BA, etc.) BSc(Hons) Psychology Doctorate (PhD) PhD Vision Science AFHEA - Teaching "