Dr Drapek, who officially joins the community on 1 October, will be teaching and mentoring students
Colleen is a Postdoctoral scientist at the Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge University, studying plant hormones and rhizobia legume symbiosis.
In this interview she tells us more about her research, inspiration and goals.
During my PhD, I studied how plant roots form different types of cells for specialized functions. Roots are fascinating to study because they make up at least 50% of the total plant body but are not typically what we picture in our minds when we think of plants (usually we think of stems, leaves and flowers). I am currently studying how plant hormones regulate beneficial interactions with microbes, which occurs at the root-soil interface. These interactions are crucial for providing plants with nutrients.
As an undergraduate, I learned I enjoyed biological research and was fortunate to have a variety of research experiences using different genetic and molecular approaches. I enjoyed working in plants the most because they’re easy to genetically maneuver, making the scientific possibilities exciting. I enjoy my research because it’s not only interesting to me but will hopefully have impacts for designing environmentally sustainable fertilizers.
I owe much of my early career success to mentors who created supportive research environments for women in STEM.
I was attracted to Lucy Cavendish because it has a history of creating safe spaces for everyone to pursue their academic interests. I am looking forward to teaching and mentoring students, especially as a supervisor. I am also keen to integrate into the postdoc community and help organise events focused on career or academic interests.