Persistent Curiosity
A Podcast by T Shaped
#4: Career at National Labs with Dr Samantha Erwin
How is it to work at a national lab? This career path, extending beyond academia, intrigues many who are curious about its dynamics and opportunities.
In this episode, we're talking with Dr. Samantha Erwin, who will offer us an insider's perspective. We'll explore the realities of life in a national lab, uncovering the unique challenges and rewards of this career path. Sam will also share insights from her personal career journey and provide tips for professional success. If you've ever been curious about the day-to-day life, career progression, and the impact of research conducted in national labs, stay tuned for an enlightening conversation.
Today's Guest:
Dr Samantha Erwin
Sam’s journey in mathematical modeling started with her Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Murray State University and a Master’s from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, followed by a PhD in Mathematics from the same institution. Her research during her PhD focused on mathematical models of immune responses to infectious diseases.
Post-PhD, Sam held a postdoctoral position at North Carolina State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, before taking on a role as a Research and Development Associate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
Currently, Sam is a data scientist and team lead at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in the Applied AI Systems Group, where her work centers on computational methods for One Health solutions.
In her professional career, Sam has been actively involved in various scientific communities, notably as a Committee Member of the Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics (SIAM).
Sam's career reflects a unique blend of mathematical expertise and a dedication to health innovation, making a lasting impact in both science and society.
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