Meet Imogen Coe

Imogen Coe - Professor, Toronto Metropolitan University.

Imogen has her PhD from the University of Victoria (1992) and as well as a Masters and Bachleors. She now works as a professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, at the university Imogen delves into the intricate workings of cells.

A fun fact about Imogen is her dual identity as both a scientist and an advocate, often surprising those who see science and advocacy as separate realms. She challenges the notion of keeping politics out of science, recognizing that science exists within society and is deeply influenced by societal norms and biases. Imogen's commitment to promoting EDI in STEM serves as a reminder that scientists have a responsibility to actively address issues of inequality and exclusion within their field.

When did your love of STEM begin?

When I was born.

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

I am curious by nature and finding out about how cells work is my first love as an academic research scientist. How does the living world work. It's an endless detective story. Meeting people from around the world, travelling to meet other scientists. Seeing young scientists blossom and flourish.

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

Build your network. It's not you - it's the system. Get involved in social justice activities as well as STEM. STEM is as racist, sexist, homophobic, ableist and colonial as other parts of society. So if you feel excluded or overwhelmed, remember it's the system telling you that you don't belong. It has nothing to do you with your ability, your confidence, your likability etc. Find cultures and contexts that are inclusive and EDI-aware. Remember that everyone gets imposter syndrome - including men, they just don't talk about it and it's pathologized to make girls and women feel like it's their fault. Read critical race theory and feminist literature, find allies and learn bystander intervention. Be bold, be brave, screw perfect, be an activist.