Erica Leder new professor of marine biodiversity
Erica Leder has been promoted to Professor of Marine Biodiversity at the Department of Marine Sciences. Her research focuses on evolutionary biology, investigating how populations and species develop and adapt to their environment.
Congratulations! How does it feel to be a professor?
"Thank you. It feels nice to finally be promoted. I was qualified when I started here as far as experience, but I never had the formal pedagogical courses. It took some time to finish those, and it took time away from other duties, so I am glad that part is finished."
What does this promotion mean to you?
"On a daily basis, it does not really impact me too much. It is easier to introduce myself as professor rather than ‘senior lecturer’. I suppose it is more about how others perceive the position. It means that I am recognized by the university and others as an expert in my research area."
And now... What is your next step?
"I don’t expect that much will change. I will continue to perform my research and teaching as I had. The only potentially new aspect of my duties will be that I can serve as examiner for PhD students. This will be a nice duty as I will get to be more involved with other PhD students other than my own, and help guide their education."
