Can L’Oréal really fund your scientific research? 👀
In this episode of When In STEM, we’re breaking down what fellowships like L’Oréal For Women in Science can actually do for your career and why choosing the right lab and mentor can matter more than your CV.
Today’s guest is Dr. Sydney Aten, a postdoctoral researcher at Harvard Medical School, neuroscientist studying circadian rhythms and fertility, and a 2025 L’Oréal For Women in Science Fellow. Sydney shares her honest journey into neuroscience, how early research experiences shaped her path, and what she’s learned about mentorship, lab culture, and leadership as a woman in STEM.
We talk about
• Why she applied for the L’Oréal For Women in Science fellowship
• What fellowships offer beyond funding and why recognition matters
• How to know if a postdoc is right for you
• Choosing the right PI and lab environment
• Mentorship and leading as a woman in STEM
• Navigating research careers without a “perfect” path
If you’re a student, early-career scientist, or someone questioning academia, postdoc life, or research fellowships, this episode is for you.
Submit your questions/scenarios for Career Corner 👇https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe-57wMEkBTFQ954QJrlZp9MP0ZPKK3Urmn8rPvS6Yfq42qlA/viewformSTREAM WHEN IN STEM : https://liinks.co/when.in.stem.podcast ♡ Stay Connected:♡ Subscribe to my channel for more: https://www.youtube.com/@labskillsacademy2979♡Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labskillsacademy/ ♡Follow me on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@labskillsacademy💌 For business inquiries: info@labskillsacademy.comᵔᴗᵔ Hello ᵔᴗᵔ I’m Marie, a scientist, content creator, and podcast host passionate about helping students and early-career researchers navigate the world of STEM a. On this channel, I share tips, advice, and insights to help you thrive in your PhD journey and beyond.♡ Want even more insights? Tune in to my podcast, WHEN IN STEM, where I interview scientists, educators, and industry leaders about careers in STEM, research advice, and personal growth strategies. You can listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube or wherever you get your podcasts!Join me as I break down these insights, share personal experiences, and offer strategies to make your STEM journey smoother, and a lot more rewarding.