Held by Her Work, Healed by Her Words

In this episode of In Her Element, host Swati Upadhyay speaks with Dr. Deepali Ernest, a public health scientist and epidemiologist, about her journey through academia, the challenges of completing a PhD, and the importance of support systems and creativity in science. They discuss the unique experiences of women in STEM, particularly immigrant women, and the need for kindness and mentorship in academia. Deepali shares her insights on the significance of public health communication and the role of creativity in making research accessible to the public.TakeawaysGetting a PhD is a huge deal, but the costs are rarely discussed.Determination is key to completing a PhD journey.Nothing in life is linear; paths can change unexpectedly.Support systems are crucial for success in academia.Creativity can enhance the impact of scientific research.Public health communication is essential for reaching wider audiences.Women in STEM face unique challenges that require resilience.Mentorship can shape the next generation of researchers.Kindness and empathy are vital in professional settings.Experiences of adversity can lead to personal growth and strength.