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  • CAREER COLUMN

I’m a trans scientist — here’s my advice for navigating academia

Facing microaggressions and harassment has left me exhausted, yet empowered with insight. Here’s what I’ve learnt.
  1. Atom J. Lesiak

    1. Atom J. Lesiak is director of Genome Sciences Education Outreach (GSEO) at the University of Washington, Seattle, where they develop science-education events and activities. They serve as a member of the University of Washington’s Faculty Allies Leadership Committee and often lead training sessions on inclusive mentorship and diversity, equity and inclusion topics.

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I first came out as transgender in applications to graduate programmes back in 2007, when I began my medical transition. But I went back to being closeted about my identity during my PhD in neuroscience. I felt secure coming out again publicly midway through my postdoc training at the University of Washington, Seattle, eight years later.

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doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-023-00923-3

This is an article from the Nature Careers Community, a place for Nature readers to share their professional experiences and advice. Guest posts are encouraged.

References

  1. Motro, D., Evans, J. B., Ellis, A. P. J. & Benson, L. III. J. Appl. Psychol. 107, 142–152 (2022).

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