Joseph Chaney: Mentor Q&A

For National Mentoring Month in January 2021, we asked mentors throughout the Diversity Program Consortium to respond to this brief questionnaire. The responses to these Q&As help showcase the important work mentors do every day, and highlights their creativity and dedication in revising their mentoring practices in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Read more to get acquainted with some of the mentors who work with the DPC.

Mentor Portrait: Jan. 2021 National Mentoring Month Q&A with Joseph Chaney, Ph.D.

1. Tell us a bit about your background; for example, when did you become interested in science and what was the reason? Was there a mentor who helped you on your education and/or career pathway?

I grew up in the shadow of Southern University in Baton Rouge, La. I was introduced to science research by participating in several summer research programs led by Dr. Diola Bagayoko in high school at Southern. Dr. Bagayoko founded the Timbuktu Summer Science Institute, which gave me the opportunity to see the possibilities of a career in science and the power of mentorship. 

2. What is your area of research?

We are exploring the mechanisms and allostery present but not totally understood in mitotic motor proteins.

3. The past year has presented many new challenges for all of us. What are some of the challenges you have faced as a mentor or as a researcher? What were some of the solutions you found?

As a researcher, the challenge is to be productive and keep engagement with students apart from the lab. We decided to reevaluate the research questions that we are asking and to look for other ways to address those questions using technology.

4. Has your idea of what it means to be a mentor evolved during the past months?

I don't think that my idea of mentorship has evolved. I always believed a mentor/mentee relationship should be broad and not just about the work to be done. The pandemic has given us more opportunities to explore this idea.

5. How have you supported your mentees during the pandemic?

We started a book club over the summer to keep in contact and as a means of checking in on one another. The book club was led by my mentees and I was just a participant. 

6. What is something valuable that your mentees have taught you?

My mentees have taught me the importance of community. We celebrate each other’s victories and lift each other up in hard times.

7. Mentoring plays an important role in fostering a community in STEM. What words of encouragement can you offer to your fellow researchers and mentors?

Never go about it alone. Find the community that supports your successes and helps direct you toward the right paths for you in STEM.

LinkedIn profile: www.linkedin.com/in/jrchaneyjr