Linda Ofori Atta
BIO
Postdoctoral researcher in biocatalysis and bioprocess at Groningen University (Netherlands). Mother of one.
Linda Ofori Atta
"It is crucial to challenge societal expectations and recognize that a successful career and motherhood are not mutually exclusive."
Growing up in the small village of Banko in the Ashanti region of Ghana, I had no clear vision of my future career. Role models were scarce, but I was fortunate to be raised by my great-grandmother, who may not have had a formal education herself but had big plans for mine. My childhood was filled with pleasant memories, thanks to her love and guidance. Our family house was predominantly inhabited by women and widows, all single-handedly raising their grandchildren. Among them, I was the only great-grandchild of my grandmother. My friends could only visit me for studying purposes, and I often walked long distances to my friend's house for help with challenging homework since her parents were educated.
When I struggled with reading at the age of 8, my grandmother went door to door in our village to find a private tutor for me. Fortunately, she succeeded, and I began English and math lessons. My reputation as a smart girl spread throughout the village within a year.
After completing high school, I remained uncertain about my career path. However, as an African child, I was often told that I could only become a doctor, lawyer, engineer or be considered a disgrace to the family. I decided to pursue law since it was still within the approved options. In 2008, my mother returned from Europe after many years and decided to bring me along to Italy, where her husband was living.
In Italy, my school principal convinced me that I had the potential to pursue science. This marked the beginning of my scientific journey. I pursued O and A-level sciences and eventually enrolled at the University of Camerino to study Bioscience and Biotechnology.
There were only two black women in my class, but that didn't discourage me because I had incredible professors. After completing my Bachelor's degree, I continued my studies at the University of Pavia, specializing in Molecular Biology and Genetics. Once again, I was the only African student in my class.
Despite excelling academically and having supportive colleagues, the lab environment became intimidating, causing me to doubt my abilities and lose confidence. My great-grandmother, my usual source of support, was no longer with me. Nevertheless, I found solace in my boyfriend, now my husband, who believed in me and provided constant encouragement.
During my studies, a visiting professor from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands came to teach biotechnology. I greatly enjoyed his lectures, and during a coffee break, I mustered the courage to ask if I could visit his lab in the Netherlands for an internship. To my delight, he agreed, and that summer, I embarked on a transformative experience in a Dutch lab.
Working with enzymes was entirely new to me, although I had studied them in theory. My daily supervisor played a crucial role in rebuilding my confidence, rekindling my passion, and convincing me to pursue a Ph.D. after completing my Master's degree. As they say, surround yourself with remarkable colleagues when searching for a lab to join. Following a rigorous Ph.D. application process, I was offered a position at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Science and Engineering, working on biocatalysis with artificial enzymes. The group boasted an international composition and provided a supportive and pleasant working environment.
In the midst of my first year, I got married. However, the idea of motherhood seemed distant to me, as I believed the societal narrative that I couldn't balance a career and raising children.
When I became pregnant and miscarried, it was an incredibly painful experience. Feeling guilty, I hesitated to inform my Ph.D. supervisor, fearing disappointment. I felt unsure about sharing such personal news due to concerns about how it might affect my academic/professional situation. However, when I finally mustered the courage to share the information, his support was exceptional. He never made me feel inadequate or regretful.
In my second year, I became a mother, and navigating the challenges of being a first-time mom without extended family support was daunting. As I found my balance in the lab, the COVID-19 lockdown disrupted everything.
My Ph.D. journey, like that of many academic mothers, was far from easy. I faced numerous low moments, but speaking with my supervisor always rejuvenated me.
Upon completing my Ph.D., I pursued nearly a year of postdoctoral research at the same university and faculty, albeit in a different institute, under the guidance of another amazing supervisor. There, I worked on bioplastic monomers using bacteria. Although my great-grandmother is no longer with us, I am confident she would be proud of my heights. I hope my story will serve as an encouragement to all the mothers in science.