Meet Michelle Brann, Postdoctoral Fellow at the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian and 2024 CAS Future Leader. Michelle is a member of the national Younger Chemists Committee (YCC), of which she serves as Chair of the Communications (COM) subcommittee. Michelle’s profile is part of “Meet the YCC”, a series of blog posts highlighting YCC members and associates and what they do both in and outside of ACS.
Michelle Brann (she/her/hers)
YCC Member
YCC Subcommittee: Communications (COM) Chair
Education
B.A. with honors, Chemistry, Wellesley College
Ph.D., Chemistry, University of Chicago
What is your favorite project you have been a part of with the YCC?
It is really hard to pick a favorite so I will provide two.
First, back in 2020, I helped organize a Mental Health in Graduate School symposium. This event was supposed to happen at the Spring 2020 ACS Meeting but for obvious reasons became a virtual event. We ended up hosting over 400 attendees, and we were able to provide solidarity and support during this challenging time.
Second, I enjoyed facilitating the Younger Leaders Track of the ACS Leadership Institute (which also meant attending the Leadership Institute for two years). Not only did I refine my leadership values, but I also was inspired by my fellow ACS volunteers and staff members. I would highly encourage anyone eligible to apply. Applications open each year in late summer and are open until October 15.
What is your favorite part about being on the YCC?
It is definitely the people! I am constantly in awe of my fellow committee members, and I really appreciate the diverse viewpoints, professions, and backgrounds we all bring to the committee. I’ve made countless friends and always look forward to connecting with them even outside of ACS.
What is something you want every younger chemist to know?
Don’t worry about following a linear path, and be willing to be bold. Some of my best opportunities have come from sending one email or applying for opportunities I didn’t think I was qualified for. Having disparate research experiences can be a strength to create a unique narrative. Different research experiences can help you discover your true passions.
Similarly, don’t be afraid to take time away from academia after your undergraduate years. Even though I thought, during my last year of college, that I wanted to get a PhD, I’m really thankful I took a year off to work at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. It allowed me to confirm that graduate school was the right next step and feel confident in my choice of research group.
Credit: Prajwal MohanMurthy
What are your favorite things to do for fun?
When I’m not working, I enjoy spending time outside and like to hike, camp, and backpack on the weekends. My husband and I are (slowly!) hiking all 48 of the 4,000+-footer mountains in New Hampshire! I am also always excited about a board game night and like to destress by baking.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Since it’s my last year on YCC, I just want to take a moment and mention how grateful I am for the ACS community and everyone I’ve interacted with as an associate and member of YCC over the last 8 years!
Biographical photo by Sinéad Cheung.
