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Ragini Singh | |
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The Australian National University |
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| Canberra, Australia | ||
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Job Title: PhD student |
She is an Astronomer: What drove you into an astronomy career?
Ragini Singh: I have been interested in Astronomy since I was 10 years old. I grew up reading about stars, galaxies, planets and black holes which my grandfather had collected over the years. I did my Bachelors and Masters in Astronomy and Space Physics in India, and moved to Australia to pursue my PhD. Now I can gladly say that I am living my dream.
SIAA: Do you feel it was more difficult for you to get a job or a promotion in comparison with male astronomers?
RS: No, it is the same for both men and women.
SIAA: Are women under-represented in your institution?
RS: Fewer women staff members, however the former Director of RSAA was a woman.
SIAA: What is your family status?
RS: Single. Parents and sibling are in India.
SIAA: Have you had any career breaks?
RS: No.
SIAA: How many hours per day do you normally dedicate to work?
RS: Approximately 8-9 hours per day.
SIAA: What would most help you advance your career?
RS: I was lucky to get a scholarship to study Astronomy at the ANU, without which undertaking a PhD for me would not have been possible. However, I have to pay for my last year of PhD. So better provisions and monetary help for higher degree students will be helpful.
SIAA: What recommendation would you make to young women starting their career in astronomy?
RS: I would say 'Go for it'. It is one of the most interesting fields in science. Undertaking a higher degree in Astronomy is hard work, but the rewards far outweigh the time and effort you put in.