Dr. Iris Nira Smith, a research associate in Dr. Charis Eng’s lab in Cleveland Clinic’s Lerner Research Institute, shares her journey toward independence in research. As a recent NIH K99/R00 recipient, Iris explains what a principal investigator is, what some of their responsibilities are, the qualifications for becoming one, and why she chose to pursue this career path. Through reflecting on her past and what keeps her going in the present, Iris places emphasis on the power of perseverance and varied life experiences while sharing numerous mindset shifts we can all make to help us reach our goals. Packed with wisdom and heartfelt anecdotes, we hope this conversation will encourage you to pursue what matters to you in the face of setbacks and challenges.

Some helpful links:

Toastmasters

Ten Simple Rules to Becoming a Principal Investigator

I've Seen the End of You: A Neurosurgeon's Look at Faith, Doubt, and the Things We Think We Know