The national meeting brings together biophysicists at all points in their career and highlights the diversity of the field. I asked several women graduate students about what brings them to BPS2023 and biophysics in general. Due to being busy myself I did not get as many responses as I hoped, I have included a survey link at the bottom and would love to make an updated post if people may be interested.
Why did you choose to pursue biophysics (or science in general)?
“I'm insatiably curious about the underlying mechanisms that bring reality to life. After exploring a few majors in undergrad, I inevitably fell in love with chemistry due to the inherent focus on organizing and characterizing how the most basic building blocks interact with each other to create so many different materials. Biophysics is an extention of that, focusing on the complex and intricate interactions that contribute to (or inhibit) life.”-Elizabeth M. Diessner
What brings you to the BPS annual meeting?
“I am presenting my recent work on specific vs non-specific binding of transcription factor proteins to DNA and their transition from search mode (non-specific) to recognition mode (specific). I am excited to eat around San Diego. Also, free coffee.”-Carmen al Masri
What has been your favorite part of the annual meeting so far?
“I've been attending seminars on research that is outside my own research experience, and have learned a lot about different ways to think about similar problems.”-Elizabeth M. Diessner
Where are you from? What is your graduate program?
“Lebanon, UC-Irvine Physics PhD”-Carmen al Masri
“UC Irvine - Chemical, Applied, and Materials Physics (Chemistry Dept.)”-Elizabeth M. Diessner
Work-life balance is important, what is your favorite hobby outside of the lab?
“Surfing, anime, piano”-Carmen al Masri (La Jolla Beach Pictured in article image)
“I recently started sewing clothes. Nothing I would be able to wear in public yet, but it's a fun way to be creative with colors and materials!”-Elizabeth M. Diessner
As I mentioned here is a short url to these questions. If I get several responses, I may make an updated post. https://forms.gle/ju2gFZ6JzUM5Dj8bA