Interview Review

Harley Parker

Shade / Morrison

Senior Project

Oct. 4, 2013

Interview Review

            For my interview, I interviewed Dr. Kevin Mason. He is a researcher at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.  He has a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences. Due to his busy schedule, the interview was conducted via email. I chose Dr. Mason to interview because he is currently doing what I want to do, which is being a researcher at a hospital.

            Dr. Mason received a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology from The Ohio State University and a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences from Wright State University. He then did a postdoctoral fellowship at Duke University for 2 years, a postdoctoral fellowship at The Research Institute and The Ohio State University for 5 years. He has also been an Assistant Professor since 1998. When the conversation turned to his current work, Dr. Mason stated that he is the Assistant Professor of Pediatrics in the Center for Microbial Pathogenesis. He also explained what he is currently researching. “We study the pathogenesis (ability to cause disease) of non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae bacteria that causes diseases of the upper and lower respiratory tract. Specifically we are seeking to understand how these bacteria resist components of the host immune response and respond to host nutrient depletion. I developed my interest in this field through my postdoctoral studies and was really attracted to the multidisciplinary nature of the project. Daily we think about the molecular biology, biochemistry, host interaction and resistance mechanisms of Haemophilus.” The interview then turned to why Dr. Mason chose a medical career. Dr. Mason responded that was he was influenced by his high school teacher that developed microbiology and biochemistry courses. He also stated that, “I have always been intrigued by mechanisms of disease and understanding the dynamic interplay between bacteria and the host.” Dr. Mason’s favorite part of his job is mentoring trainees and preparing them for a science career. He also enjoys investigating the unknown to solve problems. His least favorite part is the paperwork and amount of time that he has to take away from mentoring to writing grants to support his research. Dr. Mason also talked about how he balances his career with personal life. “I work at a balance but it is a give and take. At times I need to be at work or work off hours to stay caught up and meet important deadlines. I do balance this by being present for my kids and family and making sure to keep them a priority in my life. I work hard during the day so that most weekends are dedicated to my kids and family.” Dr. Mason also provided advice to anyone interested in a science career. He said it is important to get into a lab as soon as possible and meet some other trainees. He also said get to know your mentor and other high status personal. They will be a big help later on. Dr. Mason also said that “Research is a rewarding career. Doesn't pay the best, but it’s not about the money. It's about the passion to discover and teach and learn. Every day is different and every day is an opportunity to grow and learn more.”

            I was really surprised by the work that Dr. Mason is doing. I am mainly surprised that I understand some of the work he is doing. It is really cool to see a researcher doing work based on labs I have done in BioScience. I learned a lot about what it takes to be a researcher. I did not realize how much schooling and training goes into being a researcher. I am so thankful for Dr. Mason taking time out of his busy day to help me with my project. I learned a lot from him. I wish I could have done a face-to-face interview with him. I feel I could have learned so much more from that type of interview. But I am still happy to have even gotten an interview.  I will definitely include this information in my final project.