Email: edobson@morgridge.org
Tell us about your professional background, and your current role and work at UW–Madison.
I am a scientist and career development professional with a PhD in Microbiology and Immunology and a strong foundation in microscopy, image analysis, and biomedical research. Over the past decade, I have transitioned from conducting research at institutions such as the Institut Pasteur and UW–Madison to leading career development initiatives for early-career scientists. At UW–Madison, I served as the Career Development Manager in the Office of Postdoctoral Studies, where I designed and implemented programming to support postdocs in navigating diverse career paths. My work has always centered on empowering researchers to build fulfilling careers, whether through one-on-one advising, program design, or cross-sector collaborations.
Currently, I serve as the Postdoctoral and Graduate Program Manager at the Morgridge Institute for Research, where I develop and lead programs that support professional and career growth for graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and early-career staff scientists. My role bridges scientific training with career readiness, emphasizing leadership development, inclusive mentorship, and community building. I also collaborate closely with UW–Madison partners to co-create career development content and foster a supportive research training environment. At the core of my work is a deep commitment to ensuring that early-career scientists have the tools, networks, and confidence to navigate their futures with purpose.
What are your experiences with and philosophy about mentoring?
I have experienced mentorship from multiple perspectives, first as a mentee during my time as a PhD student, postdoc, and staff scientist, and now as a mentor and career development professional. These experiences have shaped my belief that mentorship is central to a healthy, productive research environment. In my current role, I have the unique vantage point of observing mentoring relationships across labs, which gives me insight into what fosters trust, growth, and collaboration and what can unintentionally create barriers. I believe strong mentorship is not innate, but a skill that can be developed with intention, training, and reflection. I am deeply committed to helping both trainees and mentors build these skills, because when mentoring is done well, it elevates not just individuals but entire scientific communities.
Please share something important, interesting, or fun about yourself.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, exploring new craft beers and restaurants, capturing life’s moments through photography, and spending time with my wonderful husband and our two energetic toddler girls – they keep me on my toes!
What do you enjoy most about facilitating Delta Research Mentor Learning Communities for graduate students and postdocs?
What I enjoy most about facilitating Delta Research Mentor Learning Communities is that I am constantly learning alongside the participants. Each session brings new perspectives, creative ideas, and thoughtful reflections from graduate students and postdocs who are approaching mentorship with such intentionality. I am inspired by their openness and the generational shift toward more inclusive, mindful mentoring practices. The conversations energize me and offer fresh insights that I carry into my own work.