Soapbox Science 2023

Soapbox: Did you choose a scientific career or did the scientific career choose you?

KB: I think it’s safe to say that it chose me. I started studying psychology with the dream of becoming a classic (clinical) psychologist. Through my studies, I somehow drifted away from that dream – I guess that is when the scientific career chose me – and I have not been able to get away from this path ever since (luckily)!

Soapbox: What was the key moment that brought you to the place where you are today?

KB: Funnily enough, initially, that did not have anything to do with my career or my academic life. I would say the key moment that brought me here, was when I adopted my dog. I knew him since he was a puppy and he always had a special place in my heart. At the time, he was owned by a friend of mine, who soon after decided to give him away. So, I saved my little furry friend from having to go to the shelter and that really forced me to settle down, think about my next steps in life and what I want to do and achieve. I think without my dog, I would probably be travelling and most likely be far away from building an actual career in science! I wouldn’t change it for the world though!!

Soapbox: What is the most exciting aspect of your research?

KB: For me, the most exciting aspect is that it’s quite relatable to everyone. Everyone is involved in consumer behaviour and buying food products and it is nice to be able to chat about my research with pretty much everyone because (as long as I don’t mention all the statistical analyses) it is not something too abstract that everyone has experienced to some extent.

Soapbox: If you were stranded on a deserted island, what scientific equipment would you bring with you?

KB: Probably some kind of recorder, so I could record all of my experiences and study them in depth once I am saved again!

Soapbox: What challenges do you encounter in science?

KB: I think sometimes science can be connected to some pretty harsh critique that is obviously never nice to hear, especially when you just poured your heart and soul and probably a lot of time into a piece of work. Because of that I sometimes find it challenging to not let that critique get to me on a personal level.

Soapbox: What motivates you to give a talk in Soapbox Science?

KB: Soapbox Science is a great way to empower women. I love to see that in jobs that are typically associated with men it is becoming more and more normal for women to specialize in as well, which is why I want to contribute to solidifying the image of women in science. Besides that, I’m sure it will be a great opportunity for me to get out of my comfort zone and experience something new!

Soapbox: Do you have a few words to inspire other female or young scientists?

KB: Just follow your dreams and don’t give up! There’s always a way and maybe that way isn’t always so obvious at first but if you want something and you work hard enough for it, something good will come out of it. 

Soapbox: In these pandemic days, what funny/interesting experiments, books, talks or podcasts can you recommend to our audience?

KB: I would say my favorite talks are still the classics – the TED talks! I watched so many of them during the pandemic and was even convinced enough to buy some of the speakers’ books (which was a good choice!)