This Academic Life

Ep.48 – Reflection

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 17:20:55 -0000

After two years since the launch of This Academic Life podcast, we reflect on how we did, how we are going forward, and answer some common questions that many listeners have asked over time. We thank all of our listeners, everyone who has contributed, our guests, and our editing team. Special thanks to Jared Duffy and Angella Chen who are our editors, RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal who composed the music for our show, Pania Newell who is the creator of the fantastic artwork for each episode.

Contact list: If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on the webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on Facebook group “This Academic Life”. Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.47 – Professional Memberships

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 11:00:00 -0000

In this episode, we talk about some of the benefits of professional memberships and some fun facts about them. Reference list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.46 – Academic Service

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 11:30:00 -0000

Every academic has to do service at some point in their early career. We explain the inner workings of picking services that are both enjoyable and beneficial for you career as well as our experiences with service.

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.45 – Academic Mentoring

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 11:30:00 -0000

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.44 – Student Fellowships

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 11:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss different nationally competitive student fellowships and provide some advice on how to prepare a strong packet. Reference list:

https://grad.ncsu.edu/student-funding/fellowships-and-grants/national/nationally-competitive-graduate-fellowships/

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.43 – Fun Facts on The Nobel Prize

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 11:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss some fun facts about the Nobel Prize from its origin to the most common recipient types.

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.42 – A Success Story of a Woman Veteran in STEM

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 11:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we are honored to host Ms. Morghan Carr, a coast guard veteran, to discuss her journey into a STEM career and learn more about how we can help other veterans who are interested in joining the STEM workforce. It’s important to note that Morghan volunteers for ArmySmart which provides free online tutoring to service members and veterans to help them achieve their further education goals. Reference list:

Miss Morghan Carr (guest) is a Civil Geotechnical Engineer working in Portland, Maine after receiving her Master’s of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of New Hampshire and serving in the United States Coast Guard. Her unique career path into a STEM career was facilitated by her experiences and benefits earned from the U.S. Military, and she aims to encourage more Veterans to pursue STEM careers.
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.41 – A Pivotal Decision: Plan for Promotion to Full or Move to Administration?

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 10:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss your options for your future in academia. Do you continue the route of being a professor and attain full tenure or do you pivot to an administrative role? Both have their positives and negatives, we discuss and layout our thoughts on the issue.

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.40 – Does Prestige Matter in Academia?

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 10:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss whether prestige matters in academia and how it shapes academic hierarchy. This topic is based on a paper published recently in Nature entitled “Quantifying hierarchy and dynamics in US faculty hiring and retention” authored by Daniel Larremorem et al, which presented an analysis based on a large dataset from US faculty census collected in the past 10 years. Reference list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.39 – How do faculty choose research topics?

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 10:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we talk about how faculty choose research topics and how one can come up with novel ideas for research. We also share a few tips for junior faculty as they step into their independent research career. Reference list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.38 – Episode 38: Ready, Set, Go for a new academic year

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 10:30:00 -0000

Returning from the break we dive into how to prepare for the new school year including tips on how to balance your workload and block out time for yourself. Reference list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.3 – Rerun: Real Talk: 5 Unspoken Tips for Early Career Faculty

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 10:30:00 -0000

The early years of a faculty position can be an exciting and challenging experience. In this episode, we will provide 5 unspoken tips for early-career faculty. These tips are gathered from our own experiences, which can benefit those who are going through the early years of their academic life.

Reference list: Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

References:

Contact list: If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on facebook group “This Academic Life”.

Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.4 – Rerun: The H-Index: Keeping up with the Joneses

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 10:30:00 -0000

The h-index, or Hirsch index, measures the research impact and productivity of a particular scientist. Since its inception in 2005, it has become a standard way to somewhat objectively quantify an individual’s research impact. In this episode, you will learn what it is, what is expected of this H-index from researchers at different stages of their research careers, and ethical practices in increasing your H-index. We also raise concerns in the un-intended use of H-index for the academic world we are in today. Reference list: Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com) References:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.9 – Rerun: Academic Salary

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 10:35:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss the taboo topic of a professor’s salary and the importance of academic salary transparency. We also discuss how administrators can work with junior faculty and help them ease the salary negotiation process. Reference list:

https://www.ccdaily.com/2021/04/a-look-at-faculty-presidents-salaries/
https://www.lifeofaprofessor.com/post/are-professors-rich
The Annual Report on the Economic Status of the Profession, 2018-19
https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2014/07/02/327289264/episode-550-when-salaries-arent-secret
Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

Contact list:

If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on facebook group “This Academic Life”.

Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.37 – Academic Conferences

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 10:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we talk about academic conferences. Why you should go, what you need to do to prepare, and what are the do’s and dont’s when you get there. Reference list: Sponsor: De Gruyter: This episode is sponsored by De Gruyter and its portfolio in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. For “Students and Researchers in Mathematics” De Gruyter’s 2022 catalog is now available on This Academic Life website. Contact list: If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on the webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on Facebook group “This Academic Life”. https://www.apa.org/ed/precollege/psn/2016/09/academic-conferences Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.36 – Lecturers in Academia

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 10:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss with Dr. Aleeta M. Powe, an associate professor of instruction in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Louisville, on the challenges and needs that lecturers face in academia. Reference list: Sponsor: De Gruyter: This episode is sponsored by De Gruyter and its portfolio in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. For “Students and Researchers in Mathematics” De Gruyter’s 2022 catalog is now available on This Academic Life website. Contact list: If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on the webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on Facebook group “This Academic Life”. Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.35 – Turning in Final Grades

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 10:39:00 -0000

Episode Notes

In this episode, we talk about instructors’ stresses when turning in those final grades. As we wind down the semester, it is time to see if all of your lecture preparation, classroom demonstrations, careful selection of homework questions, creation of in-class quizzes, and your best science jokes have paid off - it is time to “Turn in Those Grades.” Reference list: Sponsor: De Gruyter: This episode is sponsored by De Gruyter and its portfolio in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. For “Students and Researchers in Mathematics” De Gruyter’s 2022 catalog is now available on This Academic Life website. Contact list: If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on the webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on Facebook group “This Academic Life”.

Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.34 – A Middle Schooler's View on STEM

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 10:44:00 -0000

In this episode, Lise Tantin talks about the broad view of STEM from a middle schooler’s point of view. She shares her thought on how the STEM programs are evolving and what the new topics attract youth these days. Guest bio: List Tantin is a student at West High School's magnet ELP program in Salt Lake City-Utah. She will be graduating from eighth grade this year. She is interested in neuroscience. https://www.txstate.edu/chemistry/About-the-Department/Faculty-Profiles/schilter.html Reference list: Sponsor: De Gruyter: This episode is sponsored by De Gruyter and its portfolio in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. For “Students and Researchers in Mathematics” De Gruyter’s 2022 catalog is now available on This Academic Life website. Contact list: If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on the webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on Facebook group “This Academic Life”. Cast list:

Lise Tantin (Guest) is an 8th grader in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.33 – Non-Traditional Path to A Tenure-Track Position

Wed, 25 May 2022 10:30:00 -0000

Non-traditional path to a tenure-track positionIn this episode, Prof. Schilter talks about his unusual path to a tenure-track position and how his position as a senior editor of Nature Reviews Chemistry is helping his career today as a researcher and educator. Guest bio: David Schilter attended The University of Sydney, where he received a BS with First Class Honours and the University Medal (2001−2004). He continued at Sydney to pursue graduate work in bio-inorganic and supramolecular chemistry, for which he was awarded a PhD (2005−2009). Combined postdoctoral/lecturing stints at The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2009−2014) and the Institute for Basic Science (2014−2016) saw him extend his repertoire into bio-organometallics and carbon materials, respectively. This experience was further complemented by his editorial roles at Springer Nature, where he helped launch Nature Reviews Chemistry while also serving at Nature Catalysis and Nature Communications (2016−2021). A passion to return to academia and exploit this diverse knowledge saw him join the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Texas State University as Assistant Professor (2021−). His interests lie in the synthesis and characterization of molecular inorganic complexes relevant to biology and catalysis. https://www.txstate.edu/chemistry/About-the-Department/Faculty-Profiles/schilter.html Reference list: Sponsor: De Gruyter: This episode is sponsored by De Gruyter and its portfolio in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. For “Students and Researchers in Mathematics” De Gruyter’s 2022 catalog is now available on This Academic Life website. Contact list: If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on the webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on Facebook group “This Academic Life”. Cast list:

Prof. David Schilter (Guest) is a Professor of Chemistry and BioChemistry at Texas State University.
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.32 – Social Media in Academia

Wed, 11 May 2022 10:30:00 -0000

In this episode we discuss how social media sites and academics go hand in hand. Whether it's promoting your work, making connections, or helping get your students names out there every platform has its benefits and drawbacks.

Reference list:

Wired Academia: Why Social Science Scholars Are Using Social Media LINK
Social Media in Academia LINK
Social media for professional development and networking opportunities in academia LINK
Academia goes social media, MOOC, SPOC, SMOC and SSOC LINK
The social media in academia and education LINK
Social media for scientists LINK

Sponsor: De Gruyter: This episode is sponsored by De Gruyter and its portfolio in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. For “Students and Researchers in Mathematics” De Gruyter’s 2022 catalog is now available on This Academic Life website. Contact list: If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on the webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on Facebook group “This Academic Life”. Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.31 – Managing Your Grants

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 10:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss some frequently asked questions regarding grants management once the funding has arrived at the awarded institution, including: course buyout, summer salary, overspending, and indirect cost recovery (or overhead returns). Reference list:

OMB Uniform Guidance for Grants and Contract Agreements OMB Uniform Guidance (2014) | GRANTS.GOV

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Edited by Angella Chen
Edited by Jared Duffy
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.30 – Overcome Overwork

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 10:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss the culture of overwork and how we can strategize to overcome it. Good reads are listed in the Reference list in this show notes.

Reference list: https://voicesofacademia.com/2020/09/04/confronting-the-culture-of-overwork-less-is-more-by-brittany-uhlorn/ https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2019/12/11/what-interests-do-busyness-and-overwork-academe-serve-opinion https://archeothoughts.wordpress.com/2018/09/21/the-cult-of-overwork-in-academia-a-confessional-post/ https://thevarsity.ca/2021/03/14/opinion-combatting-toxic-academic-culture-work-to-learn-not-work-to-work/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8282063/

Cast list: Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.

Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.

Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team: Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com) Edited by Angella Chen Edited by Jared Duffy Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.29 – War and Education

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 10:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss the war in Ukraine and its impact on the scientific community and academia as a whole. Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Angella Chen
Jared Duffy

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.28 – DEI: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 10:30:00 -0000

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) has become an ubiquitous part of academics. In this episode, we talk with an DEI expert, Mr. Matt Pinchinat, who is the director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the Guilderland Central School District in the capital region of NY. He’s also an adjunct faculty at Clarkson University. He answers some emergent questions on why DEI is necessary in academics and what we expect to achieve through DEI activities and initiatives. Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Mr. Matt Pinchinat is the Director of DEI at Guilderland Central School District in NY and an adjunct faculty at Clarkson University.
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Angella Chen
Jared Duffy

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.27 – Recommendation Letters for Students

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 11:30:00 -0000

Recommendation letters are an important part of students’ applications for different fellowships, scholarships, as well as grad school. In this episode, we will talk about who to ask for these letters and what is the typical format of these letters. Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Editing team:

Angella Chen
Jared Duffy

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.26 – Side Track: Moving Before Tenure

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 11:30:00 -0000

In our anniversary episode, we discuss faculty on “Side Track”: moving before tenure with Dr. Andre Clayborne who is an assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry and BioChemistry at George Mason University. Dr. Clayborne has successfully navigated the transition between universities while on the tenure track. He candidly shares with us his experiences, concerns, and challenges on his “train” to tenure. Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

https://academia.stackexchange.com/questions/18078/how-frequently-do-pre-tenured-assistant-professors-switch-institutions

Prof. Andre Clayborne (guest) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and BioChemistry at George Mason University. https://science.gmu.edu/directory/andre-clayborne
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.25 – Academic References for Faculty

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 11:30:00 -0000

Recommendation letters are an important component of a postdoc/faculty application as well as a faculty promotion packet. These letters have unique requirements and are not the same as typical letters of recommendation. In this episode, we talk about who you should ask for these letters and how to write these letters. Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.24 – Course Evaluations

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Teaching evaluations can have many purposes including assessment of an instructor’s teaching effectiveness. It can also impact one’s academic career such as reappointment or promotion and tenure. In this episode, we talk about the history of teaching evaluations, how and when they are effective, and how we can possibly improve students’ participation and its effectiveness in the future. Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Useful Resources and References:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.23 – The Adventures of Faculty Sabbatical Leave

Wed, 05 Jan 2022 11:30:00 -0000

Sabbatical for academic professors is a sacred opportunity to rejuvenate research ideas and initiate research collaborations. In this episode, we talk about the history and various forms of sabbatical. We also share how we planned and made our own sabbaticals as meaningful enrichment experiences.

Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Useful Resources and References:

Contact list: If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on the webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on Facebook group “This Academic Life”. Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.22 – Chasing Funding for Researchers at National Labs

Wed, 08 Dec 2021 11:30:00 -0000

The grant culture in research institutes (i.e. academia, industry, and national labs) has been evolved over the past decades and led to an environment where chasing fundings has had a significant impact on shaping the new culture. In this episode, Dr. Anastasia Ilgen, a Principal Member of Technical Staff at the Geochemistry Department, Sandia National Laboratories, shares her experience and insights on writing proposals and securing research funding. She discusses how to build cohesive research programs and design proposals with an appropriate combination of risks and likely successes.

Guest info: Dr. Anastasia G. Ilgen is an experimental geochemist, specializing in chemical reactions at solid-water interfaces. She leads several research programs at Sandia, and is active in the American Chemical Society Governance. She grew up next to the active volcanoes on the Kamchatka Peninsula, in Russia. She enjoys hiking with her family, traveling, cooking and baking, and taking care of her numerous pets.

Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.21 – The Quest for a Faculty Position-Part II

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 10:54:00 -0000

Our conversation on the quest for a faculty position continues. Listen to our perspectives from both sides of the table.

The fall season is time to look for faculty positions and universities are also getting ready to find the most suitable candidate(s) for their openings. This episode talks about some aspects of this search.

Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)
An interesting read: https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2016/06/10/how-write-effective-diversity-statement-essay

Contact list:

If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on the webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on Facebook group “This Academic Life”.

Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.20 – The Quest for a Faculty Position-Part I

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 10:33:00 -0000

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)
An interesting read: https://www.insidehighered.com/advice/2016/06/10/how-write-effective-diversity-statement-essay

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newell (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.19 – What did we do this summer?

Wed, 13 Oct 2021 10:32:00 -0000

Do professors get their summers off? You’ll learn about how the three of us spent our summer. Research continues, administrative tasks pile up, and the summer is simply too short!

Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)
An interesting read: https://www.higheredjobs.com/Articles/articleDisplay.cfm?ID=1711

Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.18 – Academic Entrepreneurs

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 10:48:00 -0000

Academic and entrepreneurship are strongly linked in many ways as they work together in contributing to technology and economic developments in our society. Today, we’ll learn from an academic entrepreneur, Dr. Adam Ryason, The CEO and founder of “Intelligent Medicine Inc.” and learn how he started his exciting adventures. Intelligent Medicine Inc. is a software and simulation startup company based in upstate NY. Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Contact list: If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on the webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on facebook group “This Academic Life”. Cast list:

Dr. Adam Ryason is the CEO and founder of Intelligent Medicine Inc. https://www.intmed.us/#about
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.17 – A Rollercoaster Ride: The Life of a Graduate Student

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 09:42:18 -0000

Graduate school can be exciting and yet stressful for a graduate student. In this episode, we talk with a couple of Ph.D. students who are a married couple, Keawepono (Pono) and Priscilla Delgado Wong. Both Pono and Priscilla are currently biomedical engineering students at Georgia Tech. They share their journeys as graduate students. Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Pono and Priscilla Delgado Wong are currently Ph.D. students in the biomedical engineering department at Georgia Tech.
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).Notes here

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.16 – Exploring Undergraduate Research

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Have you ever wondered about doing undergraduate research? In this show, we learn about the benefit of doing undergraduate research from Prof. Cynthia Furse, a professor in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at the University of Utah. She has mentored more than 175 students throughout her career and in this show, she shares her thoughts about all aspects of undergraduate research. Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

References for listeners:

https://www.ece.utah.edu/undergraduate-research/

Contact list: You can find more information about Prof. Cynthia Furse on

Prof. Cynthia Furse (guest) is a professor in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at the University of Utah. Dr. Furse is a Fellow of the IEEE and the National Academy of Inventors.
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI)

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.15 – Quantum Education

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Have you heard of quantum education? In this show, we learn about it from Dr. Tina Brower-Thomas, a research professor in the graduate school at Howard University. She also holds a visiting faculty appointment at Harvard University. At the forefront of national quantum education, she shares with us how she got into this field and some initiatives she is currently leading. Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

References for listeners:

Contact list: You can find more information about Dr. Tina Brower-Thomas on https://profiles.howard.edu/profile/39526/tina-louise-brower-thomas If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on facebook group “This Academic Life”. Cast list:

Dr. Tina Brower-Thomas (guest) is a research professor in the graduate school at Howard University. She’s the Executive Director of CIQM (Center of Integrated Quantum Materials) at Howard and Education Director.
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.14 – Mid-career Burnout

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 09:00:00 -0000

Mid-career development can be daunting and challenging in an academic career. With much emphasis on junior faculty, and also senior faculty who take leadership roles, mid-career development is often overlooked. A mid-career burnout resulting in a career slump can occur to many of us. As hard as we try to avoid admitting or even talking about struggles and challenges we face as mid-career, the reality is - it is real and if you experience it - you are not alone. In this show, we interview Prof. Michelle Portman, Associate Professor of Technion Israel Institute of Technology, leading the MarCoast Ecosystems Integration Laboratory. She shares her academic journey particularly during her mid-career and provides some advice on how to face and overcome mid-career burnout. Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

References for reviewers:

Contact list: You can find more information about Prof. Michelle Portman on https://portman.net.technion.ac.il If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on facebook group “This Academic Life”. Cast list:

Prof. Michelle Portman (guest) is an Associate Professor at Technion Israel Institute of Technology. https://portman.net.technion.ac.il Her column “You’ll be OK” appeared in Science Working Life can be found here https://science.sciencemag.org/content/348/6240/1282/tab-pdf
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.13 – Which Q comes first: Quality or Quantity?

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 09:00:00 -0000

Episode Notes

We all have heard the phrase “Publish or Perish”, but what does it really mean in our today’s academic life? In this show, we interview Prof. Stephane Bordas, Professor of Computational Mechanics at University of Luxemburg, to talk about Quality vs Quantity related to scientific publishing. He has published more than 200 journal articles and has served as the editor of a few journals. He will share some insights on which Q comes first when it comes to publishing scientific documents.

Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

References for listeners:

Contact list:

Cast list:

Prof. Stephane Bordas (guest) is a Professor of Computational Mechanics at University of Luxemburg. https://wwwfr.uni.lu/recherche/fstm/doe/members/stephane_bordas.
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.12 – Myths and Realities of Academic Administration

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, we talk to Prof. Linda Schadler, the Dean of College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences at the University of Vermont, on the myths and realities of academic administration. She shares with us her path of becoming an administrator and then a dean of an engineering college. She spells out some myths about academic administration and the realities and surprises she faces at this position.

Reference list:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)
Artwork is created using Canva (canva.com)

Contact list:

If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org.
You can also find us on webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on facebook group “This Academic Life”.

Cast list:

Prof. Linda Schadler (guest) is a Dean of the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences at the University of Vermont. https://www.uvm.edu/cems/profiles/linda-s-schadler
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.11 – School kids ask

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, we interview two school kids, Kingston (a 7th grader) and Phenix (a 4th grader), from Durham, NC. They ask us some great questions about how college works and what a professors’ life looks like, and the process to pursue a STEM career.

Reference list: Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.10 – Kim discusses research infrastructure at HBCUs during DOE Roundtable

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 10:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss Jennifer Granholm’s visit to Howard University and the panel she had with Kim on it. Discussing topics ranging from promises to increase funding to Kim being quoted in a Washington Post article.

Reference list:

https://www.vuu.edu/Content/Uploads/vuu.edu/images/Pledge%20of%20Allegiance%20FINAL.pdf
The Panel(Kim’s Section is around 17 minutes) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33iP7BzZoC4&t=1040
https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2021/05/03/howard-university-stem-research/
Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

Contact list:

Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.9 – Academic Salary

Wed, 26 May 2021 10:03:00 -0000

https://www.ccdaily.com/2021/04/a-look-at-faculty-presidents-salaries/
https://www.lifeofaprofessor.com/post/are-professors-rich
The Annual Report on the Economic Status of the Profession, 2018-19
https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2014/07/02/327289264/episode-550-when-salaries-arent-secret
Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

Contact list:

Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.8 – Study Abroad: US vs Europe

Wed, 12 May 2021 08:00:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss some major differences between European and American educational systems with Dr. Christos Athanasiou, a postdoctoral research associate in the School of Engineering at Brown university. As someone who has personally experienced studying in both European and American institutes, he will share some insights into these two different educational systems.

Reference list: Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

https://educationdata.org/international-student-enrollment-statistics

https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/IF/IF11347

https://www.insidehighered.com/news/2019/11/18/open-doors-data-show-continued-increase-numbers-americans-studying-abroad

Contact list:

Cast list:

Dr. Christos Athanasiou (guest) is a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the School of Engineering at Brown University. He is the founder of M&M science mentorship program. Please check out his website if you are interested in having a mentor or you know someone who is looking for a dedicated mentor:

https://www.ceathanasiou.com

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.7 – Don't Ignore Those Awards

Wed, 28 Apr 2021 10:30:00 -0000

In this episode, we discuss the importance of getting awards in academia and ways to get them with Dr. Debbie Kaminski, a professor emeritus in Mechanical Engineering. She will share with us the different types of awards faculty members can go after and why it is critical for the community as a whole to work together to promote each other’s work through nomination.

References:

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

https://advance.washington.edu/resources/docs/Mabrouk-EverythingYouWantedToKnow.pdf

https://jcsw.hms.harvard.edu/files/joint-committee-status-

women/files/presentation_for_jcsw_01112018.pdf

https://ask.metafilter.com/341303/Ethics-re-asking-to-be-nominated-for-an-award

Contact list:

Cast list:

Prof. Debbie Kaminski (guest) is a Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). She is also a sci-fi fiction writer. Please also check out her most recent books:
https://www.amazon.com/Island-Too-Lovely-Deborah-Kaminski-ebook/dp/B0867Q5NTX/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=an+island+too+lovely&qid=1617154057&s=digital-text&sr=1-1
https://www.amazon.com/Damians-Workshop-Deborah-Kaminski-ebook/dp/B00SSJXBEW/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=damian%27s+workshop&qid=1617154196&s=digital-text&sr=1-1
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.6 – A High Schooler Asks

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0000

In this episode, we interview Angella, a high schooler, who wants to know more about what a professor does, how to find the passion in choosing his/her academic path, and what it takes to become one.

Reference list: Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

Cast list:

Guest: Angella Chen, Niskayuna High School, NY
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.5 – STEM Women Moving Forward in Academia: Prof. Robin Selinger

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Although more women than men participate in higher education in the U.S., the same is not true when it comes to women pursuing careers in science and engineering. Despite the increased emphasis on gender equality, statistical evidence shows that the STEM gap keeps increasing.

In this episode, Prof. Robin Selinger, a Professor of Physics from Kent State University and a Fellow of the American Physical Society, offers a wealth of her insights and experiences that are beneficial to all STEM women and men in academia. The discussions include the challenges she has faced, mentors who were critical to her career and success, how we can make an even playing field for women in STEM academics, how leaders in the professional communities and universities can advocate for women colleagues who tend to not self-promote, and how to successfully recruit people color into STEM academics, and how affirmative action can be used as a double sword against women in STEM and how our male colleagues should be part of this conversation as STEM women moving forward in academia.

Reference list: Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

Contact list: You can find more information about Prof. Robin Selinger on https://www.kent.edu/physics/profile/robin-selinger.

Cast list: Prof. Robin Selinger (guest) is a Professor of Physics at Kent State University in Ohio.

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.

Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.

Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.4 – The H-Index: Keeping up with the Joneses

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 07:30:00 -0000

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.3 – Real Talk: 5 Unspoken Tips for Early Career Faculty

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 10:00:00 -0000

Reference list: Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

References:

Contact list: If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on facebook group “This Academic Life”.

Cast list:

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.2 – Pandemic Impact on Research Productivity

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 12:00:00 -0000

Research is a major component of our academic enterprise. However, pandemic has significantly impacted the way we conduct research and lowered our overall research productivity, particularly in science and engineering disciplines. In this show, we interview Prof. Harold Park, Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Boston University, to talk about pandemic impact on research productivity. He served as an Interim Dean during the onset of campus shutdown due to the pandemic in 2020. We discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly that COVID has brought to the academics and the impact it has had on research productivity.

Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

References cited:

Myers, K.R., Tham, W.Y., Yin, Y. et al. Unequal effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on scientists. Nat Hum Behav 4, 880–883 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41562-020-0921-y
Johns Hopkins Junior faculty report https://covidinfo.jhu.edu/assets/uploads/sites/10/2020/08/junior_faculty_report.pdf

Contact list: You can find more information about Prof. Harold Park on http://people.bu.edu/parkhs/. If you have any comments about our show or have suggestions for a future topic, please contact us at info@thisacademiclife.org. You can also find us on webpage https://thisacademiclife.org and on facebook group “This Academic Life”.

Cast list:

Prof. Harold Park (guest) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Boston University.
Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis (host) is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.
Prof. Pania Newel (host) is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.
Prof. Lucy Zhang (host) is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life

Ep.1 – In the beginning

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0000

We are 3 professors in engineering and sciences at different stages in our academic careers. This podcast is to discuss issues and challenges we all face as academics in STEM fields and to encourage and inspire one another as we explore This Academic Life.

We hope this show will become a platform to facilitate a community where we can learn from each other and make an impact in STEM education and research.

In this opening episode, we will introduce ourselves and about the show.

Reference list: Music by RuthAnn Schallert-Wygal (schallert.wygal@gmail.com)

Cast list

Prof. Kim Michelle Lewis is a Professor of Physics and Associate Dean of Research, Graduate Programs, and Natural Sciences in the College of Arts and Sciences at Howard University.

Prof. Pania Newell is currently an Assistant Professor in the Mechanical Engineering Department at The University of Utah.

Prof. Lucy Zhang is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI).

Support This Academic Life by contributing to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/this-academic-life