My recommendation is to foster a habit of recognizing the completion of even the smallest tasks each day. This could be as simple as acknowledging a taught class or making progress on a few lines in your grant proposal.
For this “end-of-summer-edition” of the fellow of the month series we asked our mathematician, Anastasia Molchanova, to tell us about her post doc experience at the University of Vienna. Find out more about her research, her strategies in overcoming the challenges in work-life as a post doc and why she was expelled from a conference this summer.
Describe your research in one sentence.
Anastasia: I am developing theoretical foundations, involving analytical and geometrical approaches, to advance mathematical modelling of natural phenomena.
Tell us about a normal day in the life of a postdoc.
Anastasia: A glimpse into the life of a postdoc in mathematics often finds us stationed in front of our computers. The routine involves keeping up-to-date on the latest academic news and conference updates, reviewing papers, combing through the latest research literature, proofreading papers, and handling administrative responsibilities. Much time and energy go into tracking job opportunities and drafting applications for positions and grants.
The more exciting side of the work includes scientific discussions with colleagues, where formulas and concepts, which look like elvish writings and petroglyphic drawings, materialize on a blackboard. At other times, it is a solitary activity when we can throw ourselves into computations and estimates.
One of the highlights, among others, is exchanging ideas with colleagues. These over-coffee conversations enclose not only research-focused discussions but also casual chats about life itself. And the cherry on the cake – a moment when a long-sought-after proof finally comes together.
How will society benefit from your research?
Anastasia: The immediate impact of my research on society, as well as any theoretical research, is the expansion of knowledge. At the same time, there is always a hope that my research will add to the foundations for materials science, engineering, and technology, which will affect fields like manufacturing and medical science.
Share a funny/surprising or unexpected anecdote with us from your academic career so far:
Anastasia: Have you ever been expelled from a conference? It happened to me just this summer. The reason was surprisingly boring – I developed flu symptoms on my way to the conference. Upon arrival, a COVID-19 test confirmed a positive result, which led to a "confinement" in my room for a night and a hasty return journey.
The funniest thing is that the test turned out to be false-positive.
What does REWIRE mean to you?
Anastasia: The REWIRE programme granted me three years of research, free from teaching and administrative commitments. Beyond that, it introduced me to a remarkable community of women within the programme. It expanded my horizons and provided insights into challenges and opportunities across various research domains and academic life.
The most important lesson learned so far that you want to share with other future (female) early post docs:
Anastasia: My recommendation is to foster a habit of recognizing the completion of even the smallest tasks each day. This could be as simple as acknowledging a taught class or making progress on a few lines in your grant proposal. Especially if you are engaged in theoretical research, the "real achievements," like having a paper accepted or receiving grants or awards, might only come a few times a year. Much of your time is spent trying to prove something, but it doesn't work.
Moreover, "I have done X today" serves as far more motivating encouragement to move forward than "I have done nothing today," don't you think?
Quickfire Questions
Keyboard or Pen?
Chalk
Vanilla or chocolate ice cream?
Can I get a hot one?
Early bird or night owl?
Oppossum
Interested in reading more about Anastasia's research? Click here.