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Name: Bridget Chalifour, PhD
Title: Genomics Scientist, Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Education: University of Colorado Boulder, PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology; University of Florida, BS in Environmental Science, minors in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation and Soil and Water Science.
Company Description:
Department of Zoology and Health Sciences, Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Tell us more about your job.
I'm a Genomics Scientist, which means I study DNA. DNA is in every living thing, so I get to work on a wide range of projects. My job is to answer questions using genetics and DNA, so I collaborate with other curators at the Museum as well as conduct my own research. Right now, I'm working on a few different projects, collaborating with our curators of entomology and arachnology to identify potential new species, and preparing to launch my own research on the microscopic organisms that make up the human microbiome!
My work involves hands-on lab research in the Genomics Lab (which you can see behind the Expedition Health exhibit at the Museum), as well as data analysis, statistical processing, and writing scientific papers. I also have the opportunity to engage with the public through outreach programs, sharing science in a fun and accessible way both online and in the Museum, while contributing to the scientific development of our exhibits.
Why is STEM important within your industry?
Many people don't realize that natural history museums, like the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, are not only places for exploration and fun but also vital hubs for scientific research. My background in STEM equips me with the knowledge to explore complex topics in biology and ecology, which enhances my understanding of our specimens and how we study them. Genetic and genomic research, in particular, relies on the collaboration of multiple STEM disciplines, including biology, chemistry, computer science, and mathematics. By studying genomics, we gain valuable insights into evolutionary processes and biodiversity--knowledge that we can share both in our lab and through the Museum's exhibits.
Was there a specific moment when you decided you wanted to pursue STEM as a career?
I always knew I loved nature and wildlife, which was nurtured by growing up in the biodiversity hotspot of Central Florida. The classes I enjoyed most in school were science classes, particularly Environmental Science, where I got to learn so much about the natural world. The more hands-on experience I had in science, from doing dissections in school, to visiting museums, to doing fieldwork in the mountains of Colorado and salt marshes of Maine, the more I was hooked on it. I would say there wasn't a specific moment I decided to pursue STEM as a career, rather, it was the culmination of many positive experiences in science that fueled my curiosity.
What do you like best about your job?
There's so much I love about my job! I truly appreciate the freedom that comes with genetic research, where I have the opportunity to explore a wide variety of organisms. At DMNS, I also get the chance to collaborate with an incredible group of knowledgeable and inspiring women. We support each other and our research, which makes the work even more rewarding.
What are the most important skills needed in your job?
Some of the most important, and often underappreciated, skills in STEM are the non-scientific skills, like clear communication. To make our research meaningful, it's essential to convey our findings in a way that resonates with a broad audience, especially being able to explain simply why our work matters. Beyond scientific expertise, my job also requires skills in teaching, creating clear and engaging visuals, and writing in a way that's informative, approachable, and captivating for people from all walks of life.
Have there been times in your career where you've faced difficult challenges and how were you able to overcome them?
As a research scientist, failure is an inevitable part of the journey. There have been many times when I've poured countless hours into a project, only to see it not work out. Over time, I've learned that setbacks are simply a part of the process, and everyone experiences them. If you're not making mistakes or facing challenges, you're not truly learning. I've found that stepping away from the problem, even for a short time, allows my brain to process and come up with new ideas. For me, hobbies like spending time with my dog, exercising, baking, reading, or even watching a guilty-pleasure reality TV show help clear my mind and refresh my perspective.
What advice would you give to girls of all ages who are interested in STEM?
Be curious and ask lots of questions! Dive into hands-on STEM experiences--they may help you discover a field you never imagined would spark your passion. Also, seek out other girls in STEM to form a supportive network. A strong community is essential, and lifting each other up can make all the difference in your journey.
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