KITE Trainee Profile: https://kite-uhn.com/trainees/nevena-musikic
LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nevena-musikic/
Research Specialty/Focus of Research: Biomedical Engineering/Artificial Voice for Laryngectomy Patients
KITE Team: Neural/Rehabilitation Engineering Academic
Affiliations: PhD Candidate in Biomedical Engineering at University of Toronto, Teaching Assistant at University of Toronto, Collaborative Program in Neuroscience (CPIN), Research Assistant at KITE, Executive member of KITE Trainee Executive Committee
What inspired you to pursue a career in science?
Ever since I was a little girl, I have been interested in the “why-and-how” phenomena of everything that surrounded me. Growing up, I realized that science is the only thing that could offer the answers to my countless and ever-emerging questions. The love and passion I developed for science eventually led me to choose it as my life path.
How did you become interested in your specific area of research?
I wanted my work to be oriented towards people and their needs. The choice of rehabilitation engineering came naturally. The device I am working on is intended for patients who have lost their larynx and ability to speak due to cancer treatment. I believe that having your voice taken away is one of the toughest challenges one can face. Thus, I made it my mission to contribute to this field.
What specific challenges do girls and women in science face?
When you are a woman in science, people sometimes approach you with certain prejudices about what your career and life should look like. Unfortunately, the society has not yet moved away from a stereotypical image of a woman who is still somewhere below a man on the social scale.
What challenges have you faced and how did you overcome them?
I believe that a career in science is challenging regardless of gender. It is full of ups and downs that can only be overcome if you have a lot of patience and understanding for yourself.
Why do you think it is important to have diverse voices in the lab?
In my opinion, diversity results in increased creativity in the lab. Every person has a unique set of skills and ideas. Diverse voices make us aware of different aspects of the topic, which is extremely important for painting a full picture.
Did you have any female mentors on your journey to KITE? I have the pleasure of collaborating with Dr. Atena Roshan Fekr, an affiliate scientist at KITE, on a project that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to improve the quality of life for the elderly. Dr. Roshan Fekr is a true example of an inspiring female leader whose work has a huge impact on many lives.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of your work?
It is believed that Michelangelo was 87 years old when he said, “Ancora imparo”(I am still learning). I would say that this is the most rewarding aspect of my work – you never stop learning. A dynamic environment, brainstorming and a team of amazing people lead to the birth of ideas that could really change the face of tomorrow.
What advice would you give young girls who are interested in science? My advice to young girls who are interested in science is to be curious and never be afraid to explore.
Do you hope to be a role model for young girls?
I think we all secretly hope that one day we will be a role model for someone. However, I would be happy even if I knew that I had inspired young girls and encouraged them to dream big.