Ep 89: Heather Roberts on Researching without a PhD

In this episode, Katie is joined by Heather Roberts, Coordinator for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in College of Forestry and Information Manager for Landscape Ecology, Modeling, Mapping and Analysis (LEMMA) collaborative research group at Oregon State University. Heather Roberts has worked as a database administrator, GIS analyst and programmer at OSU on the Landscape Ecology, Modeling, Mapping and Analysis team since 2006. She performs a variety of tasks related to developing highly detailed models of forest vegetation across large multi-ownership landscapes. She completed her Bachelor's degree at the University of Oregon, majoring in Computer and Information Science and Environmental Studies. Prior to OSU, Heather worked as a database administrator and field technician at Dorena Genetic Resource Center, a Forest Service research station that specializes in breeding tree populations with natural resistance to invasive pathogens. In 2016, Heather coordinated the planning process to develop a strategic plan to enhance diversity, equity and inclusion in the College of Forestry (CoF). She was appointed as the College's first Coordinator for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in July 2017. Her Coordinator duties include organizing efforts for implementing strategies in the DEI plan across CoF departments and units, chairing the College's new DEI standing committee, and serving as liaison with others on campus engaged in DEI initiatives.   Segment 1: Researching Without a PhD [00:00-12:27] In this first segment, Heather shares her pathway to a research position without earning a PhD. Segment 2: Data Documentation and Database Administration [12:28-22:37] In segment two, Heather shares some best practices of database administration. Segment 3: Heather's Pathway to a Leadership Role [22:38-34:23] In segment three, Heather shares about her most recent career shift into leading a diversity and inclusion initiative. Bonus Clip #1 [00:00-04:13]: Heather Roberts's Favorite Books for Professional Development To share feedback about this podcast episode, ask questions that could be featured in a future episode, or to share research-related resources, contact the "Research in Action" podcast: Twitter: @RIA_podcast or #RIA_podcast Email: [email protected] Voicemail: 541-737-1111 If you listen to the podcast via iTunes, please consider leaving us a review. The views expressed by guests on the Research in Action podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Ecampus or Oregon State University.