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Introducing Lauren

Lauren (she/her) completed her Bachelor of Kinesiology at the University of Toronto in 2019, followed by a PhD at Western University in 2023.

Lauren is now a postdoctoral scholar in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences at the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ, where she works in the Mobilize Clinical Biomechanics Lab researching knee osteoarthritis (OA) and the impact of a variety of structural and illness factors in knee OA progression and severity

Facing and getting support for challenges

Lauren explains that her biggest challenge as a new postdoc was entering a new lab and adapting to a new way of conducting research. “I chose a lab that was quite different from what I was used to because I wanted to learn new methods and research strategies, but it was very challenging to have to ‘start fresh. ’" She found that this transition really challenged her confidence, and she put a lot of pressure on herself, especially when it came to publishing. One key source of support during this time was her supervisor, who played an important role in reassuring her and instilling confidence, acknowledging how challenging it is to navigate this new role. 

Beyond her supervisor, Lauren highlights that building connections with colleagues and other scholars at ��ݮ��Ƶ has been incredible. “I’ve met with them to discuss their roles at ��ݮ��Ƶ and how they got into them, and I just asked basic questions about navigating the academic and research world. It was incredibly comforting to realize that this is a very normal feeling that’s shared amongst most people in a postdoctoral role, which has also helped to dissipate the imposter phenomenon."

These connections also encouraged Lauren to pursue the Fundamentals of University Teaching program through the Centre for Teaching Excellence. She says that while it is challenging to seek out help, she believes she is now a more confident researcher because of the guidance and support she has had. 

Advice to postdocs

When asked what advice she would give to new postdocs, Lauren says the biggest thing to remember is that people want to help you succeed and you are not alone. “If there’s one thing I learned, it’s that you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help. I tried to figure everything out on my own because I assumed asking for help would show a weakness. I couldn’t have been more wrong”. She adds that having honest conversations with colleagues can be reassuring because you realize that others have experienced similar challenges and feelings.  

Lastly, Lauren encourages postdocs to seek early support. “Reaching out early makes a significant difference, before stress becomes too overwhelming. By being proactive and open to seeking help, I’ve learned that ��ݮ��Ƶ provides the tools for success, but it’s up to you to take the first step in utilizing them."

Related resources

• Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs has a webpage dedicated to navigating imposter phenomenon.

• The Centre for Teaching Excellence offers various training opportunities open postdocs, including the Fundamentals of University Teaching and the New Instructors Foundation program. 

• The Library provides resources and services on topics such as publishing, grant writing, and more.