Meet Ann Balasubramaniam

Ann Balasubramaniam graduated with a PhD in Biological Science, with a specialization in Arctic Aquatic Ecology, from the University of Waterloo. She currently works as a Policy Analyst for the Government of Canada in the Canadian Arctic. In her spare time, Ann likes to do anything outdoors, including hiking, biking, and camping.

When did your love of STEM begin? My first memories of interest in STEM came from being the daughter of a biology teacher that loved to explain the "why's" and "hows". When I was about 6 years old I recall that my father and I would go into his teaching lab at the local college he taught at. My father would let me 'assist' his lesson planning by taking me through his explanation of the lab activity. One day I was even let into his actual class so I could see the frog dissection. The smell of formaldehyde and the chatter of students were drowned out by my absolute fascination with the anatomy of frogs.

What is the best part about working in the field of STEM?

I think the best part of working as a Policy Analyst for a science organization is the fact that I am able to leverage the skills and experience I got during the course of my doctorate and apply it to my work. Engagement that I did during my PhD is enabled me to quickly adapt engagement techniques to the context of my current position. Research and analysis skills, which were critical to thesis writing, are proving invaluable for day-to-day tasks associated with a Policy Analyst. Finally the professional network I was immersed in during my PhD are now important groups of colleagues I can lean on when I need information to improve my analysis. Another great part of being a Policy Analyst for a science organization, is enabling timely knowledge sharing and synthesis of issues into plain language for briefing my managers, and supporting decision-making.

What advice would you give young women interested in a career in STEM?

I would advise you to understand your motivations and seek projects, classes, and jobs that are interesting and motivating. I would also suggest that you stick to it despite hurdles and potential conflicts. Find a mentor that you can talk to about your career aspirations and interests. But most of all, in the pursuit of your career or education, take opportunities to develop soft skills as well as hard skills.