Catherine Atherton (@cat_atherton), Bangor University, is taking part in Soapbox Science Bristol on Saturday 15th July 2017 where she will be giving a talk called: “Storing images in the Brain: How we remember faces, objects and brands differently”
SS: How did you get to your current position?
CA: I completed my Underdgraduate studies in Psychology with Neuropsychology with a first Class Honours. I then went on to finish my Masters in Psychological Research with a distinction before starting my PhD in the field of Cognitive Neuroscience at Bangor University.
SS: What, or who, inspired you to get a career in science?
CA: I wanted to study more about the brain after being insprired by the work of Dr Oliver Sacks in the Nuerological field.
SS: What is the most fascinating aspect of your research/work?
CA: Using Electroencephalograph technology and recording brainwaves. It is fascinating being able to watch people’s brains respond in real time to the world around them.
SS: What attracted you to Soapbox Science in the first place?
CA: It is becoming increasingly important for research to be communicated to the general public and I felt that Soapbox Science was a great opportunity to engage with the public and tell them about my research whilst simultaneously promoting women’s places in science.
SS: Sum up in one word your expectations for the day
CA: Engaging
SS: If you could change one thing about the scientific culture right now, what would it be?
CA: Publication Bias- Science should be about the open communication of knowledge and all results irrespective of whether the results are positive.
SS: What would be your top recommendation to a woman studying for a PhD and considering pursuing a career in academia?
CA: Make the most of opportunities available to you, such as conferences, and other events such as Soapbox Science. This allows you to promote yourself and your work but also promotes equality in science.