Jasmien Orije

Background

About Jasmien Orije

Creating meaningful connections, that’s what I am passionate about, both at work and in my spare time. In my current job as a postdoctoral researcher, I connect many dots. This goes from setting up experiments and acquiring data by precisely following protocols, to analysing large datasets, which often requires automatization of these processes. I always find it exciting to do statistical analysis and see how the outcome could help to solve the scientific puzzle. There is something satisfying in knowing that by applying precise methods and analysing the results, you can solve almost any problem. During my PhD, I discovered that there is even more joy to be found when you communicate these findings to a scientific or general public and connect with them. I never expected growing up as an introverted kid, that I would get such fulfillment out of presenting my data at a big international conference. But I also wanted to make my scientific findings approachable to the general public. Therefore, I explored the avenue of science communication and participated in several projects that pursue this aim, including ‘the science battle’ and ‘science figured out’. Nice visualisations and graphic design also help to get your scientific message across. This plays into my creative side and I was especially proud when one of my images made the cover of a scientific journal. In my future job, I am looking to fulfill both my analytical, puzzle-solving side and my creative side to create something meaningful. Because I find it important that my work matters, not only for me but also for others and society as a whole. During my PhD, I did mostly fundamental research on neuroplasticity in songbirds, which has relevance in the long-term but in my next job, I would like to see more of the fruits of my work directly. In my interactions with others, I help people grow and often play a mediating role, as the oldest of five daughters I was often the one to solve discussions between them. I like to bring a positive mindset to the work floor, preferably over some homemade pastries. I believe in leading by example, rather than authority. You get better results when people do things for you out of respect, rather than out of fear or obligation. In my spare time, I connect different yarns and fibres to create new things and I connect with others by sharing my latest projects on my knitting profile @knittingblossoms. Feel free to connect with me, by adding me here on LinkedIn or sending me an e-mail: jasmien.orije@gmail.com