Virginia Gewin, December 15, 2020
Researchers reflect on a challenging pandemic year and on how lockdowns changed their approach to work and their perceptions of the scientific enterprise.
At the best of times, science is a complex juggling act of research, teaching, mentoring, grant writing and publishing. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought nationwide lockdowns, rising racial tensions and virtual scientific life. For many, 2020 has been a year in which doing well has meant simply muddling through. The darkest moments, however, can often help to reveal a clear purpose.
Female researchers are disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Nature spoke to seven about what they have taken away from this year of upheaval, and how, despite challenges, they forged new career directions and launched new initiatives.