Judy Potashkin, PhD

Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got to where you are now?

Since I was a child, I loved science, and biology was my favorite class in high school.  At Lehigh University, I had been planning to be pre-med until one of my professors piqued my interest in molecular biology and research.  There was no turning back after I did my first research project in a parasitology lab.  In graduate school, I started in a cell biology lab, and then moved to the State University of NY, Buffalo, where I completed my doctoral research on nuclear structure at Roswell Park Memorial Institute. I continued my research as a post-doctoral fellow at Cold Spring Harbor Lab, where I began studies in gene expression.

Who has had the biggest impact on your career?

My undergraduate Professor at Lehigh University, Jeff Sands, inspired me with his lectures and stimulated my interest in molecular biology. When I told him that his teaching changed the course of my career from medicine to research, he encouraged me to take his graduate course in Biophysics before making such an important decision.  Worried that I might have trouble understanding the physics, I convinced my best friend, who was an engineering student, to take the course with me.  We agreed that I would help him with the biology, and he would help me with the physics.  We both enjoyed the course tremendously.  My best friend is now my husband and research colleague, fulfilling my dream of combining engineering and biology in my research.

What is your greatest scientific accomplishment?

My most recent research is what I am most proud of.  I have transitioned from doing basic research in yeast to translational research using human data.  When I began my studies in neurodegeneration, it became evident to me that there were no cures for Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and other dementias.  My interest in Lifestyle Medicine, guided me to look for means to slow or reverse neurodegeneration.  I am now focused on bringing this information out to the public.

Have you ever faced prejudices being a woman?

I am sorry to say that I frequently faced prejudices and obstacles during my career because of my gender. Each obstacle caused me to question my career choice.  I am amazed that I have succeeded despite these problems.  The outcome has been an awareness that I can be braver and more resilient than I ever realized.

What tips or advice would you give to other women that want to pursue a faculty position?

Always follow your gut feeling.  If something feels right, pursue it and do not let challenges stop you.  It is very rewarding to succeed at your goals. But if something feels wrong, there is probably a reason you should stop and re-evaluate your choices. 

What are some fun facts about yourself that are not on your resume?

I love all forms of art. When I was thinking about my career, I debated whether I should be a scientist or an artist.  I am happy that I chose science since I have found research thrilling, but I continue to create art as a hobby.