Fail-Safe Science

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Ella Wang, an Instructional Assistant Professor at Chapman University in Orange, California. Ella’s dissertation research focused on investigating the role of Local and Crystallography Symmetries in Solid-State Coordination Complexes to Target Magnetic and Optical Properties. Currently, her work focuses on improving the student experience in general chemistry and inorganic chemistry courses. Here, Ella opens up about what it was like to transfer labs in graduate school after her primary advisor left the university. Through this experience, Ella learned how to utilize university resources, as well as the importance of reaching out to people and seeking help. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Ella Wang Faculty Profile: https://www.chapman.edu/our-faculty/yiran-wang.aspx  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Ángel Garcia, an assistant professor at James Madison University. Ángel’s dissertation research focused on exploring how reliable is culturally-framed geological knowledge about karst, and his work now focuses on multiple aspects of cave and karst science. Here, Ángel talks about how he felt when he failed his comprehensive exams on his first try. However, despite obstacles Ángel was able to move forward in his degree with the support of community and better communication with his committee. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Ángel Garcia Faculty Profile: https://www.jmu.edu/geology/people/all-people/garcia-angel.shtml  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Kristen Vogt, a Scientist at OverT Bio in New York. Kristen’s dissertation research focused on reducing off-tumor toxicities associated with CAR T cell therapy, and her work now focuses on developing universal cellular therapies for solid tumors. Here, Kristen recounts an authorship dispute she had on one of the projects she worked on during her PhD. Despite being demotivated at first, Kristen learned how important it is to stand up for yourself, and how a combination of both a belief in yourself and support from others can help you get through challenging times. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Kristen Vogt OverT Bio Website: https://overt.bio/about  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Danna Staaf, an author, science communicator, and marine biologist. Danna’s dissertation topic was the reproduction and early life of Humboldt squid, or as she likes to summarize it, “squid sex and babies.” Now, she writes popular science books for adults and for children, gives public lectures, and draws funny educational comics. Here, Danna talks about what she considers a moral failure related to how it felt for her to sacrifice so many squid for her dissertation research. Though it was difficult for her to reconcile the importance of both the lives of animals and scientific research itself, Danna was able to navigate through her PhD with the help of meditation and journaling, and the experience has informed how she talks about animals and their deaths today in her roles as both a science communicator and parent. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Danna Staaf Website: https://www.dannastaaf.com/p/home.html  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Corrado Nai,  a science writer working as a freelancer, currently based in Jakarta, Indonesia. Corrado’s dissertation research focused on microbiology, specifically on a special type of fungi that can live in the desert, called black fungi. His work now focuses on creating a graphic novel about the forgotten woman who introduced agar to the laboratory, Fanny Angelina Hesse, which he hopes will be published in 2026. Here, Corrado recounts his experience starting in one PhD program and switching to a different one, and how that impacted his future career path as well as his views on science culture as a whole. However, despite the challenges, Corrado learned how to have a long-term perspective on work and life, and the importance of exploring your options in graduate school. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Corrado Nai Patreon: www.patreon.com/corradonai  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

Trigger warning: This episode discusses domestic violence. In this episode, we hear from Dr. Ellie Aerts, a postdoc in reproductive neuroendocrinology at Oregon Health and Science University. Ellie’s dissertation research focused on the neural circuitry controlling the timing of puberty onset, and her work now focuses on the connections between meal timing and fertility. Here, Ellie shares about the really difficult experience of leaving an abusive relationship and almost failing a class during her first year of graduate school. Through various ups and downs, Ellie learned that with support and taking care of what she needed to in her personal life, she could navigate through the hurdles of the PhD. Let’s listen! *If you or someone you know is in need of support for domestic violence, there are resources available to you. In the U.S., you can dial 1-800-799-SAFE for the National Domestic Violence Hotline for free, confidential, 24/7 service. For more location, national, or international resources, check out the NO MORE Project global directory at https://nomoredirectory.org or reach out to someone you trust for support. You are not alone. Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Ellie Aerts University Profile: https://www.ohsu.edu/iracda/scholars  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

Trigger warning: This episode discusses suicide. In this episode, we hear from Dr. Joseph L. Graves, Jr., the MacKenzie Scott Endowed Professor of Biology at North Carolina A&T State University. He also serves as the Director for the Genomic Research and Data Science Center for Computation and Cloud-Computing (GRADS-4C, the NIH), the Associate Director for Precision Microbiome Engineering (PreMiEr) (NSF Gen-4 ERC), and the Director of NC Amgen Biotech Experience. Joe’s dissertation research focused on life history, evolution, and aging in Drosophila. His work now focuses on the evolutionary genomics of adaptation applied to several different systems, including the evolution of anti-metal resistance in bacteria, as well as continued work on  life history, evolution, and aging in Drosophila. Here, Joe discusses how he navigated being a graduate student at historically white institutions as an African American, the challenges he faced, and how he persisted. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Joseph L. Graves, Jr. University Profile: https://profiles.ncat.edu/en/persons/joseph-graves/  Further reading by Dr. Graves: A Voice in the Wilderness: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/professor-joseph-l-graves-jr-ph-d/a-voice-in-the-wilderness/9781541600737/?lens=basic-books  Racism, Not Race: https://cup.columbia.edu/book/racism-not-race/9780231553735/  Why Black People Die Sooner: https://cup.columbia.edu/book/why-black-people-die-sooner/9780231217965/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0 

Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Tracy Kijewski-Correa University Profile: https://keough.nd.edu/about/faculty-staff-directory/tracy-kijewski-correa/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Haider Ali Bhatti, a postdoc at the University of California- Santa Cruz. Ali’s dissertation research focused on assessment in science education, where he looked at a course called “Bioinspired Design” at UC- Berkeley and measured student outcomes related to student success. His current work also focuses on assessment, but in the context of field courses, specifically biology field courses at UC- Santa Cruz and measuring the impact of those courses on student outcomes. Here, Ali opens up about the passing of his mom during his first year of graduate school, and how he was able to navigate both his PhD and this devastating loss with local support from his friends and grad school community, as well as long-term support from his family back home. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Haider Ali Bhatti University Profile: https://cshe.berkeley.edu/people/haider-ali-bhatti  Personal Website: https://www.bialigy.com/ali.html  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Simona Kraberger, an assistant research scientist at Arizona State University. Her dissertation research focused on the global dynamics of mastreviruses which are a group of agriculturally important plant infecting viruses. Now, her work focuses on evolution and ecology of viruses in animals, plants and environmental samples. Here, Simona talks about a time in her PhD where she struggled with a presentation and public speaking, and the lessons she learned from these struggles that she has since applied to future scenarios. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Simona Kraberger University Profile: https://search.asu.edu/profile/3144977  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Jennifer Bekki, a Professor in The Polytechnic School within the Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University who also serves as the Associate Dean of Inclusive Excellence for the Fulton Schools.  Her dissertation research focused on modeling and analysis of semiconductor manufacturing, and her work now primarily focuses on understanding the impact of interpersonal and institutional support on the wellbeing and career trajectories of graduate students in STEM. Here, Jennifer shares what it was like to work on a modeling project that had unexpected results, and how she moved forward despite the experiment not turning out like she maybe hoped it would. She also shares part of her personal mental health journey while in graduate school, and what she recommends to students today knowing what she knows now. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Jennifer Bekki University Profile: https://search.asu.edu/profile/50188  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Nsa Dada, an Assistant Professor in the School of Life Sciences at Arizona State University. Her PhD research focused on the interactions between mosquitoes and their associated microbes, specifically those that inhabit domestic water containers. She worked on the container dwelling mosquito Aedes aegypti in Southeast Asia, Thailand, and Laos, where she was interested in understanding the relationship between fecal contamination of those containers and mosquito production. Her work now continues to focus on mosquito and microbe interactions, specifically how microbes shape the response and adaptation of mosquitoes to evolutionary pressure. Here, Nsa discusses what it was like to navigate a new culture and system by going to graduate school outside of her home country.  She reveals what it was like not knowing the unwritten/unspoken rules, and what she ultimately learned from this experience. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Nsa Dada University Profile: https://search.asu.edu/profile/4297879  Website: https://www.nsadada.com/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Adam Reitzel, a Professor and the Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Education at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Adam’s PhD research focused on the ecology and evolution of sea anemones, and his work now focuses on the comparative genomics of marine invertebrates (particularly cnidarians) and mechanisms of animal-environment interactions. Here, Adam discusses navigating fieldwork in graduate school, and the imposter syndrome and challenges that came with his first field season. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Adam Reitzel University Profile: https://biology.charlotte.edu/directory/adam-m-reitzel-phd/  Lab Website: https://pages.charlotte.edu/adam-reitzel/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Karin Ellison, a Clinical Professor in the School of Life Sciences at Arizona State University. She also directs the Ethics Program in the school, and is the Associate Director for the Center for Biology and Society. Her dissertation research focused on the history of Grand Coulee Dam and multiple purpose river development in the 20th century United States, while her work now focuses on research ethics education and practice. Here, Karin shares what it was like to navigate mental health struggles during graduate school while navigating different milestones, like comprehensive exams, teaching her first course as an instructor, and writing her dissertation. Ultimately, Karin reveals what got her through these challenges, and what she recommends to graduate students struggling with their mental health today. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Karin Ellison University Profile: https://search.asu.edu/profile/979749  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Caren Quieroz Souza, a postdoc at Federal University of São Carlos in Brazil.  Her dissertation research focused on conservation social science as an interdisciplinary approach for understanding socio-psychological factors related to pollinator conservation, and her work now focuses on understanding the role of citizen science for biodiversity conservation and human-nature connection through inter-transdisciplinary approaches, integrating social psychology and human sciences theories and methods. Here, Caren shares her experience receiving a paper rejection. She talks about the feelings that came up for her at the time, and ultimately how she coped to work through this experience. Let’s listen!

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Paige Madison, who currently works for Complexly as a script editor for PBS Eons. She is also a science writer, most recently working with National Geographic. In addition, she is writing her first book, which is due to be published in 2027. Her dissertation research focused on paleoanthropology, or the science of human origins, specifically looking at controversial fossils in science’s history. Here, Paige talks about the difficulties she had writing and defending her prospectus during her PhD. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Paige Madison Author Profile: https://janklowandnesbit.co.uk/authors/paige-madison  Website: https://www.fossil-history.com/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Arvind Varsani, a molecular virologist and a Professor in the School of Life Sciences at Arizona State University. For his PhD, Arvind focused on designing vaccines for human papillomavirus. Currently, his work focuses on the evolution of viruses across ecosystems. Here, Arvind recounts the challenges he experienced while running experiments in the lab during graduate school, and how he was able to change his outlook on failure. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Arvind Varsani University Profile: https://search.asu.edu/profile/3050059  Website: https://varsanilab.org/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Alice R. de Moraes, a postdoc at University of Campinas (UNICAMP) in Brazil. Her dissertation research focused on stakeholder perceptions and social-ecological dynamics of ecosystem services in a rural setting in southeast Brazil, and her work now focuses on co-producing local solutions for a grounded sociobioeconomy in the Brazilian Amazon. Here, Alice talks about how difficulties with field seasons and lab work added some roadblocks to her PhD, and how she moved forward despite these ups and downs. Let’s listen!   Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Alice R. de Moraes University Profile: https://www.ifch.unicamp.br/pessoas/alice-ramos-de-moraes  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Emily Webb, an Assistant Professor of Biology at Rockford University in Rockford, Illinois. Her research in graduate school focused on the physiology of color in birds. In her current position, she primarily focuses on teaching undergraduate biology courses, including Anatomy and Physiology, Genetics, and Intro Bio. Here, Emily discusses her experience with having a dissertation idea rejected by her committee and how she overcame this challenge. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Emily Webb University Profile: https://www.rockford.edu/campus-directory/webb-emily/  Website: https://theemilyaves.wordpress.com/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0 

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Edauri Navarro-Pérez, a postdoc at Arizona State University. Her dissertation research focused on roots, specifically how soil restoration treatments, in a greenhouse, affect root development. Now, her postdoc is through ESSA, Earth Systems Science for the Anthropocene, where she does various things including leading a seminar, mentoring an undergraduate, helping organize events for the community and students, and doing research in ecological-human relationships with water. Here, Edauri talks about an experimental failure, and how she navigated feeling delayed in her research due to these setbacks and the COVID-19 pandemic. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Edauri Navarro-Perez University Profile: https://search.asu.edu/profile/3254652  Website: https://edaurinp4.wixsite.com/mysite  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0 

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Ramesh Laungani, an Associate Professor at Marist University in the School of Science in the department of Environmental Science and Policy. His dissertation research focused on nitrogen and carbon cycling in grasslands. Now, his work with undergraduates primarily focuses on the ecological impacts of biochar, a potential solution to climate change and long term carbon sequestration. Here, Ramesh talks about how he got through an error that cost him a whole field season’s worth of data. However, Ramesh was able to cope with it and now uses the experience to inform his own mentoring. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Ramesh Laungani Faculty Profile: https://www.marist.edu/science/faculty/ramesh-laungani  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0 

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Gwen Iacona, an Assistant Research Professor at Arizona State University, where she serves as the Assistant Director for the Center for Biodiversity Outcomes. She also serves on the advisory board for the National Parks Service, where she promotes data-driven ecological decision-making. Gwen’s dissertation research focused on the costs and benefits of managing protected areas for conservation, and her work now primarily focuses on how we can support conservation decision makers in achieving the outcomes they are looking for. Here, Gwen talks about her struggles with her prospectus exam, and how she bounced back with the help of fieldwork and taking the space to realize why she wanted the PhD in the first place. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Gwen Iacona Faculty Profile: https://search.asu.edu/profile/3379414   Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0 

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Xyonane Segovia, an Assistant Teaching Professor at Arizona State University. Her dissertation research focused on malaria, specifically looking at resistance evolution of the malaria parasite. Now, she’s in a position where she teaches various subjects including evolutionary medicine, global health and biology. Here, Xyonane talks about navigating an experiment failure while working on her Ph.D., as well as how she coped with feelings of imposter syndrome throughout graduate school, which included strategies like therapy, medication, exercise, and, as she notes perhaps most of all, talking to other graduate students. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Xyonane Segovia Faculty Profile: https://search.asu.edu/profile/1109035  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0 

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Hong Wang, a Professor in the Department of Physics at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC. Her PhD research focused on atomic force microscope imaging of protein and DNA complexes, and her current work focuses on single molecule studies of DNA repair. Here, Hong talks about what it was like for her to navigate pregnancy (with twins) while in graduate school, and how she adjusted her research and expectations for herself leading up to the birth, as well as after becoming a new mom. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Hong Wang Lab Website: https://hwang.wordpress.ncsu.edu/  Faculty Profile: https://physics.sciences.ncsu.edu/people/hwang18/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0 

Hello Fail-Safe Science listeners! This is Olivia Davis- one of the co-founders of Fail-Safe Science. We hope you are all getting some much deserved rest and practicing self-care after a long year. We don’t have a new episode dropping this week, but we still wanted to pop on and check in with you all. In the meantime, if you are looking for mental health resources this holiday season, please check out our show notes. If you’d like to catch up on Fail-Safe Science before our new episodes drop, you can find all of the episodes we’ve released so far on Podbean, or wherever you stream your podcasts. Wishing you Happy Holidays and a wonderful start to the New Year! See you in 2026 with more stories from scientists across the globe. Bye! Transcript: Here Guide for Self-Care during the Holidays: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zqiLVtvO6wPB9K9HMK9udftF-_Nj8WAUGKkBKg8FkxQ/edit?tab=t.0  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Holly Molinaro. Holly is currently a consultant for General Mills and Blue Buffalo dog food company where she assists on understanding animal behavior to create better products. Her PhD research focused on animal emotions, specifically dogs, and her work now is focused on broadly helping people help their animals, whether in zoos, shelters, or industry partners. She has also been working on starting her own consulting firm, Animal Wellbeing Solutions, which focuses on animal welfare in these contexts. Here, Holly discusses what it was like to navigate receiving feedback on one of her potential dissertation chapters before and during her prospectus exam, and what it felt like writing up results for an experiment that didn’t go exactly the way she hoped. Ultimately, Holly shares how she reframed her view of what failure means to move forward to where she is today. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Holly Molinaro Website: https://animalwellbeingsolutions.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/animalwellbeingsolutions/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Kat Magnone, who at the time of this recording was an adjunct Chemistry instructor at Cincinnati State. Their dissertation research studied high school students learning about sodium chloride dissolution using molecular level animations. Here, Kat discusses their experience failing their qualifying exams on their first try at the second institution they went to for their PhD. They then share how going through this challenge inspired them to change not only their approach to science and research but also their approach to mental health. Let’s listen!   Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Kat Magnone Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=m3QZZOsAAAAJ&hl=en  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0  

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Raúl Araya-Donoso. At the time of recording, Raúl was a Postdoctoral scholar at Arizona State University, but he has since moved on to a Postdoc position at Yale. His dissertation research focused on the genomic and ecological factors affecting speciation rates on lizards, and his ASU postdoc kept exploring that same topic. At Yale, he will be going further on that question, and try to integrate how behavior also plays a role in shaping the evolution of organisms. Here, Raúl talks about how he navigated completing a PhD in a place other than his home country, and how he coped with disappointment by allowing himself to feel his emotions. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Raúl Araya-Donoso Research Profile: http://www.marthamunoz.com/rauacutel-araya-donoso.html   Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0 

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Kate Weiss, an Assistant Professor of Environmental Science at Marist University. Her PhD research focused on understanding how wild carnivores make decisions about what they eat in urban environments. Now, her work focuses on understanding how to promote more sustainable futures for people and wildlife species by incorporating social, ecological, and evolutionary approaches. Here, Kate talks about the obstacles she faced while finishing her dissertation, and how she overcame the expectations she set for herself based on what she thought grad school was going to look like for her, and what it seemed to look like for those around her. Let’s listen!   Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Kate Weiss Website: https://katherinecbweiss.weebly.com/  University Profile: https://www.marist.edu/science/faculty/katherine-weiss  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Mercy Salami, a senior lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Economics and Farm Management at the University of Ilorin in Nigeria. Her dissertation research focused on the contribution of wild tree species to food security in northwestern Nigeria. Since then, her research has focused on the issues of development economics. Mercy specifically works on food security, poverty, and gender, specifically among rural areas and marginalized populations. Here, she talks about how she felt when she disappointed her supervisor while defending her PhD thesis, and how she was able to process and move forward from this experience after isolating herself by talking to her sibling. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Mercy Salami University Profile: https://aefm.agriculture.unilorin.edu.ng/staffmember/dr-mrs-salami-mercy-funke/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0 

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Logan Gin, the Assistant Director for STEM in the Sheridan Center for Teaching and Learning at Brown University. His dissertation research focused on the experiences of STEM students with disabilities, and since graduating he’s been in this position working with graduate students and postdocs on professional development mostly around teaching and learning. Here, Logan discusses disappointing his advisor, and how he navigated challenges with one of his first research projects in graduate school. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Logan Gin Profile: https://sheridan.brown.edu/people/logan-gin-phd  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Max Liboiron, a Professor in Geography at Memorial University of Newfoundland in Canada, where they run the CLEAR lab, the Civic Laboratory for Environmental Action Research. Max’s dissertation research focused on the emerging state of plastic pollution as a field, and their work now focuses on creating tools and infrastructures for community-based plastic pollution research now that it is an established field. They are also the author of the book Pollution is Colonialism. Here, Max revisits the time they almost left graduate school during the first week, and what it took for them to ultimately learn how to navigate the culture and system at their institution so they could receive their PhD and do the work they wanted to do in the world. Let’s listen!   Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Max Liboiron Website: https://www.maxliboiron.com/  CLEAR lab: https://civiclaboratory.nl/  Read Pollution is Colonialism: https://www.dukeupress.edu/pollution-is-colonialism  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Patricia Rankin, a Chair and a Professor in the Department of Physics at Arizona State University. Her PhD research focused on particle physics, specifically charm photo production, and her work now primarily focuses on science policy, especially paving the way for women in STEM. Here, Patricia shares what it was like to work on lab experiments during graduate school, and the lessons she was able to learn throughout her PhD work despite not finding the particles she may have hoped or expected. Let’s listen!   Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Patricia Rankin Website: https://search.asu.edu/profile/3773475  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Sarah Habibi, the founder of Mito &Co, a children’s STEM education company based out of Toronto, Canada. Her dissertation research focused on characterizing novel drug targets in parasitic worms, and specifically looked at the parasite Haemonchus contortus, which infects livestock across North America. Now, her work focuses on science communication and STEM education, where she provides kid-friendly science experiments and activities for parents to do at home with their children. Here, Sarah talks about struggling with lab work in graduate school, and what it was like to navigate through the challenges that came with that. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Sarah Habibi Website: https://www.sarahhabibi.com/  Mito& Co.: https://mitoandco.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahahabibi/?hl=en  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Nigel Rothfels, who is now retired (huge congrats!), but at the time of this interview was a Professor of History and Acting Vice Provost for Research at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. His dissertation research focused on how animals have been thought about in different historical times, but now his scholarly work is squarely in the humanistic study of animals and culture – often called Animal Studies. Here, Nigel discusses his experiences struggling with finishing his dissertation and going on the job market at the end of graduate school. Let’s listen! Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Nigel Rothfels Website: https://sites.uwm.edu/rothfels/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0 

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Michele Clark, who is an American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Science & Technology Policy Fellow at the Department of Energy in Washington D.C. Her PhD research focused on the drivers of invasive plant species and plant distribution within community forests in subtropical Nepal, where she lived and did research as a Fulbright scholar. Specifically, she focused on how these factors related to the lives and livelihoods of rural people around community forests. Michele is also a Critical Response Process, or CRP, facilitator, which helps people learn how to give and receive feedback in a way that is both mindful and helpful for all parties involved. Here, she talks about her experience navigating written feedback throughout graduate school while writing her dissertation, and how she overcame these challenges through writing classes, going to therapy, and becoming a facilitator.   Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Michele Clark Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, we hear from Dr. Sara Brownell, a Professor and biology education researcher at Arizona State University, where she studies how students and instructors navigate concealable stigmatized identities in academic science. Sara transitioned to studying undergraduate biology education during her postdoc. She received her Master’s from The Scripps Research Institute and her PhD from Stanford University, both focused in neuroscience. Here, she discusses the challenges she had with her comprehensive exams, both during her Master’s and PhD. Let’s listen!   Podcast Resources Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Sara Brownell University Profile: https://search.asu.edu/profile/2221508  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

Dr. Fernando Salinas-Quiroz is currently an Assistant Professor in the Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Study and Human Development at Tufts University. Their dissertation research focused on assessing the quality of Mexican daycare. In their current position, they study with and for trans youth (you can check out more of their work on their website here: https://www.transfermative.com/ ). In this video, Fer discusses their experience navigating academic bureaucracy and how it affected their dissertation project.   Podcast Resources: Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Fernando Salinas-Quiroz Website: https://www.transfermative.com/  University Profile: https://as.tufts.edu/epcshd/people/faculty/fernando-salinas-quiroz  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  Nominate a scientist for the repository: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSevRFJqi8zYb1HTa_ppo2s6H962Ks_NgYSe1sQwbvE8KRU9ng/viewform?pli=1  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing  Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0   

Dr. Leah Jones-Crank is an Assistant Professor in the School of Environment, Resources, and Sustainability at the University of Waterloo in Canada. Her PhD research focused on collaborative governance of the food-energy-water nexus in Phoenix, Arizona, and Cape Town, South Africa. Currently, she is expanding that research to focus on the environmental and ecological impacts of the food-energy-water nexus in Southern Ontario. In this video, Leah discusses her experience with a change of plans in fieldwork for her dissertation during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.   Podcast Resources: Transcript: Here Scientist Info: Leah Jones-Crank University Profile: https://uwaterloo.ca/environment-resources-and-sustainability/profiles/leah-jones-crank  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  Nominate a scientist for the repository: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSevRFJqi8zYb1HTa_ppo2s6H962Ks_NgYSe1sQwbvE8KRU9ng/viewform?pli=1  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0

Dr. Matt Wund is a Professor in the Biology Department at The College of New Jersey, a primarily undergraduate institution, in Ewing, NJ. Matt’s PhD research focused on echolocation in bats, and during his postdoc, switched to behavior, evolution, and phenotypic plasticity in stickleback fish, which he continues now. Here, Matt discusses his experience with failing his comprehensive exams on his first attempt.   Music: Auroras by Steven Beddall (courtesy of Artlist.io)   Podcast Resources: Transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10MZ4YKmA15tCSEeiGZkXmnsd4I6_HxRw/view?usp=drive_link  Scientist Info: Matt Wund Lab Website: https://wund-lab.pages.tcnj.edu/  University Profile: https://science.tcnj.edu/science_faculty/matthew-wund/  Fail-Safe Science Repository: https://risecenter.asu.edu/fail-safe  Nominate a scientist for the repository: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSevRFJqi8zYb1HTa_ppo2s6H962Ks_NgYSe1sQwbvE8KRU9ng/viewform?pli=1  International Postgraduate Mental Health Alliance (MHA): https://www.ispmha.com/  Mental Health Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14G5m91FLPY5gZSHUzWXAQ4Jnm4uX9AS0yhypus3gsuQ/edit?usp=sharing Land Acknowledgement Resources: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10lLcxY7OSsuTnXyq_CSC5Wvst8MSMRurisBfX5hK7AI/edit?tab=t.0