Biophysical Society Bulletin | April 2023

Biophysicist in Profile

the material properties of such compartments evolve over time and their implications in disease states, and how we can regulate the properties and functions of these structures with exquisite control.” “My academic career, thus far, has been largely guided by an eagerness to elucidate the underpinnings of biomolecular self-assembly and organization. These questions are both intriguing and challenging,” Joseph offers. “Interrogating such biological phenomena through the lens of physics has cultivated interdisciplinary and collaborative research spaces, which are breeding grounds for revolutionary discoveries. This inherent nature of biophysics is, in my opinion, quite compel ling.” “As a Black woman in biophysics, I am often the only Black person in many academic settings. In the early stages of my PhD, the lack of diversity in science had quite a negative impact on me—dealing with impostor syndrome and feelings of isolation,” she shares. “However, these transformative experiences drove me to identify tangible ways that I can contribute to promoting diversity and inclusion in academia. In my own experience, having supportive mentors has been piv otal in helping me navigate these and many other challenges in academia.” In order to help trainees from her own background to find supportive mentors, in 2017 she launched CariScholar, a program to connect Caribbean students to Caribbean mentors in their field of study. She also enjoys mentoring and work ing with students. “I find it particularly rewarding to witness students grow into their own and become more confident,

independent academics. I have benefited enormously from having excellent mentors; thus, aspiring to be a supportive mentor myself is one way of paying it forward.” Joseph attended her first in-person Biophysical Society An nual Meeting in 2022 in San Francisco, for which she received a travel award to offset some of her costs. “I think initiatives like this are very important in promoting equality, access, and inclusion in academia,” she says. “In addition to this, I received a Postdoctoral Award from the [Intrinsically Disordered Proteins] Subgroup. Awards such as this are instrumental in increasing the visibility of early career researchers.” The meeting was a wonderful experience for her. “I recall sitting in a room with so many people that inspired me; that was very special! It was incredibly invaluable to hear first hand accounts of people’s work, to interact with leaders and pioneers in biophysics, to share ideas, and forge new connec tions,” Joseph states. She has helpful advice for those just starting their careers in biophysics. “Read widely and deeply. The field is moving at such a fast pace that it is important to stay abreast with the literature. Find good mentors and find them early. Take time to vet potential advisors and mentors. Having a supportive mentor in your corner is invaluable!” Lastly, she suggests: “Talk to researchers with other expertise. It’s easy to stay in your own bubble but the most exciting work in biophysics happens at the intersection of disciplines. So talk to other researchers, forge collaborations, learn alternative perspec tives.”

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April 2023

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