Oral History Interview: Caitlyn Allen (0799)

Abstract

In this interview conducted on August 15, 2006 by Sandy Pfahler, Caitilyn Allen shares about her life and the experiences that led her to pursue an education and career in science. Allen begins by discussing her childhood environment and the influence her parents and early education had on her interest in biology. From there, she details her undergraduate studies at Swarthmore College and her graduate experience at Virginia Tech, before offering an in-depth recount of her postdoctoral laboratory experience in France. She then continues on, offering insight about her positions at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, both in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and the Women’s Studies Program, before discussing her own research opportunities and interests, along with committee opportunities. Allen also offered input and opinion about the climate for women in science, both within her own department and in general. She ends the interview by discussing her life outside of her work and research. This interview was conducted for inclusion into the UW-Madison Oral History Program.