Kelly Knight
BIO
Associate Professor of Forensic Science and PhD candidate in Science Education Research at George Mason University.
Twitter: @ScientistKK
Instagram: @kellythescientist
Kelly Knight
“Being a mother in science in academia is not only doable but can be amazingly rewarding.”
Four years into my career as a forensic scientist in a crime lab I became pregnant with my first son. I remember struggling to button my lab coat as my belly continued to grow, crying in the bathroom after working distressing cases, and pumping in a cold screening room. My plan was to work in the crime lab forever and maybe become a technical leader one day, however, my husband wanted to move closer to family for support with our new baby.
I was completely against the idea. I worked so hard to get where I was in my career and I didn’t want to pick up and have to start all over again. But after many discussions, we decided it was the best thing for our family and it ended up being one of the best decisions we’ve ever made.
I was able to obtain a full-time faculty position right away and I have been so lucky to work with a group of individuals who have a family-centred mindset. As a mother, that support is priceless and something I don’t take for granted.
It is still tough being a mother in academia. Late classes often mean missing back-to-school nights, holiday programs, and other events. It means working on weekends and bringing work home, never knowing when to turn off. Because of this, it has become essential that I set boundaries for my personal and work life.
One of the main challenges for me as a mother and a scientist is that my time was no longer my own. As a parent, the timelines and plans you have for career progression may have to be modified or completely halted if they’re not in aligned with the needs of your family.
My best advice to other mothers is to not be so hard on themselves, remember that derailment doesn’t equal failure, don’t be afraid of change, try to find a work environment that is supportive (easier said than done, I know), and learn how to set boundaries.
Being a mother in science and in academia is not only doable but can be amazingly rewarding!