Interviews - Caroline Pollard

What is your job?

For the past three and half years, I’ve been a PhD student at King’s Forensics, King’s College London. I am in the final stretch now and it feels very surreal to be so close to the finish line!

When did you first realize you wanted to

do STEM?

I never had a eureka moment but I always enjoyed science and felt that was my strong point at school. I loved all the hands on learning as well! Most of my family members are teachers or work in politics, so think I partly also continued with science to stand out a little.

Who were your role models growing up?

My older sister! Although we have chosen two different career paths, her enthusiasm and

passion for her job has definitely inspired me.

Did you ever want to do anything else?

Most of my career ideas were always science based including being a doctor or vet. However, the thought of opening my own bakery also crossed my mind after a school project. I guess baking could also count as science?!

Have you ever had any setbacks or been told you are a girl so cannot do tech?

Thankfully, no! I’ve always had very supportive family and friends who always thought what I

was doing was really interesting which spurs me on. I am also very lucky that the majority of the PhD students in my office are female so we are always cheering each other on. The amount of support women are giving each other is great and social media has been a brilliant driving force for this.

What’s one thing you’d like to change

about the STEM community?

The work life balance, especially in academia, is a tricky one to navigate as a young scientist. For more experienced academics there always seems to be a need to teach, write papers or

complete grant applications due to the competiveness of research. This sadly trickles down to the ranks so the pressure to be working 24/7 can make it difficult not to fall into that same pattern. However, I have a great group of supportive pals help me find those all-important

breaks. Time out is very important!

Is there a problem with sexism in the

STEM community?

Not that I have experienced personally but having been based in academia I can see how it may be less practical for women to build an academic career. However, both universities I’ve worked for have been great champions of the Athena Swan programme which aims to make universities more accommodating to mums and dads.

What’s your message for young girls

wanting to do STEM?

Just got for it! Even when it gets tough, don’t give up. It will be worth it if you love doing what you do!

What is your favourite science joke?

“I don’t know how to do CPR as I only do PCR!” (Credit to my friend Ana who is a PCR enthusiast)

What is your most embarrassing

moment in your life?

On my 11 th Birthday standing in front of everyone at the Hard Rock Café Washington DC whilst they were all singing to me. Probably not embarrassing but I was mortified at the time! I did get a free Sundae so I guess it was worth it….

What is your favourite food?

This is tricky but I think due to being half German I would have to say German cuisine – nothing beats a Schnitzel mit Pommes!

What is your favourite shop?

Over the past few years I’ve been trying to shop more sustainably so I enjoy a good rummage round the charity shops to see what I can find.

Thank you ever so much to Caroline for doing this interview with us! It's been so fascinating to hear about your experiences as a Woman in STEM and we learnt a lot from you! We can't wait to hear more from you in the future! Stay tuned for new interviews every Wednesday at 9am.

@Caroline_Poll on twitter!