Dr. Paula Littlejohn (she/her)

I am a scientist. I research problems that affect health, specifically in children. My work focuses on micronutrient deficiencies, gut diseases (like colitis), and gene interactions. A day in my life can include experiments, meetings, writing, or analyzing data on the computer. Sometimes I work at my bench doing experiments. I use various model systems to study things we cannot study in humans. I use basic to specialized high-tech equipment and tools in my work.

As a scientist, not only am I trying to solve a health problem with my research, but on a day-to-day level, I’m constantly solving problems. For example, figuring out why an experiment didn’t work or why the code I’m using to analyze my data didn’t work. That takes a lot of critical thinking and problem-solving to move things along.

I make a lot of decisions every day. My process depends on the context and situation. Sometimes the process can be as simple as addressing the most immediate thing. Sometimes it requires sitting down and drawing out a map. At other times I may need to meet with my supervisor to develop a plan.

Being a scientist extends to other areas of my life. For example, I have many leadership roles outside of the lab, and some of the same methods I use in my science work apply there too. Most important for me, though, is integrity and character. Keeping that constant has been a key aspect of my professional and personal life.