Soapbox Science 2025

Soapbox: Did you choose a scientific career or did the scientific career choose you? Can you tell us about your journey into the world of science and what inspired you to pursue your particular field?

Joanna Klos: I’d say my scientific career chose me, and it all started back in my Bachelor’s during an Erasmus internship in France. Working alongside an incredible team of researchers and being mentored by a fantastic supervisor was a transformative experience. I was struck by the passion, curiosity, and intelligence of my colleagues, and it was clear that science was not just a profession, but a way of life. What really sparked my interest, however, was the complexity and beauty of the human brain. I was amazed by the relationships between biology, cells, connections, and neurotransmitters, and how they shape our thoughts, emotions, and perceptions. From that moment on, I was hooked – I wanted to understand the underlying biological mechanisms that make us who we are, and I’ve been driven to pursue a career in neuroscience ever since.

Soapbox: During your journey as a scientist, what challenges have you encountered along the way? And if you had the power to alter one (or more) aspect(s) of the scientific culture, what would you change and why?

Joanna: Throughout my journey as a scientist, I’ve faced a range of challenges that have tested my resolve and forced me to grow. On a personal level, I’ve struggled with imposter syndrome and separate my self-worth from my research. On a systemic level, I’ve encountered issues with poor management and lack of industry-adequate training. If I had the power to alter one aspect of the scientific culture, I would focus on changing the narrative around leaving academia. The notion that leaving academia is an ‘alternative’ career path is a misconception that can be damaging to early-career researchers. In reality, as Catherine (2020) points out in ‘Leaving Academia: A Practical Guide’, only 7% of graduate students secure tenure-stream jobs. This means that the vast majority of us will need to transition into industry, government, or other sectors. To better support this transition, I would advocate for more comprehensive training, counseling, and networking opportunities within graduate schools and scientific institutions. By doing so, we can empower our scientific staff with the skills and resources they need to succeed in a wide range of careers, rather than viewing leaving academia as a failure.

Soapbox: What do you think is the most fascinating aspect of your research/work? Can you share a memorable or rewarding moment from your career that illustrates the impact of scientific research on society?

Joanna: As scientists, we have the opportunity to explore the unknown and push the boundaries of what’s possible. We can make new discoveries that improve people’s lives or change our understanding of the world. It’s a real privilege to see the potential for discovery before it’s translated into every-day solutions.
One experience that stands out for me was during my fellowship at the University of Virginia, where I studied how a common anesthetic called sevoflurane affects sleep. This is important because it can impact how well patients recover from surgery. By understanding how this anesthetic works, we can develop better ways to care for patients and help them recover more quickly. It’s moments like these that remind me of the real-world impact that scientific research can have, and why I’m passionate about doing this work.

Soapbox: What role do you believe science communication plays in bridging the gap between researchers and the general public?

Joanna: Science communication is key to breaking down the barriers between researchers and the public. It’s crucial that the public understands the value and importance of the research being done, especially since it’s often funded by taxpayers’ money. By communicating our research in a clear and concise way, we can help people see the benefits of our work and how it can impact their lives.
To build trust, we need to listen to the public’s concerns and work on solutions that are relevant to their needs. This means being open, transparent, and willing to communicate in a way that’s accessible to everyone. We need to show the public that we’re not just scientists, but human beings who share similar values and goals. By doing so, we can create a more collaborative and supportive relationship.

Soapbox: What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in science, particularly young women who may be hesitant to enter the field?

Joanna: If you’re interested in pursuing a career in science, I would highly encourage you to talk to people who are already in the field. You’d be surprised at how friendly and willing to help people are. Reach out to scientists at different stages of their careers, from graduate students to established researchers, and ask them about their experiences. Ask them to be honest with you, to share both the things they value and the challenges they’ve faced. This will give you a realistic view of what a scientific career is like and help you decide if it’s right for you.
It’s also important to remember that there’s space for plenty of motivated and talented people in science. Don’t be discouraged if you’re hesitant or unsure – it’s normal to have doubts. What’s most important is that you do what’s best for you and your career goals. So, don’t be afraid to reach out, ask questions, and explore your options. You got this!

Soapbox: What is your day-to-day scientific-superpower and how does it help you with your work?

Joanna: I’d say my superpower is prototyping. I’m able to quickly create and test ideas, which allows me to “fail fast and fail forward”. By creating a rough draft or prototype, I can visualize my ideas and identify areas that need improvement. For me, prototyping is all about experimentation and iteration. And the best part is, it saves me a ton of time and effort in the long run, plus it helps me stay creative and productive at work. I can try out a bunch of different approaches, see what works, and then focus on the things that are really worth pursuing.