Dr Deidre Tronson's Story: A Symphony of Science and Motherhood
Dr Deidre Tronson's journey as a scientist and mother is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the art of balancing professional ambitions with family life. Her story resonates with the harmonious blend of scientific pursuit and personal growth, much like a well-composed symphony.
The Early Years: Breaking Barriers
In 1975, Deidre made a groundbreaking decision to return to work after maternity leave, a rarity at the time. "It was heart-wrenching, but with the support of my husband who wanted me to look to the long-term opportunities of my career, I did go back to the lab," she recalls. Her first day back was filled with unexpected joy: "I had the most amazing feeling of joy to be talking science to real adults again".
The Scientist's Perspective
Deidre's view of her profession is both poetic and pragmatic. "As scientists, we are like musicians, artists, sportspeople - we get paid for our hobby," she muses. This perspective allowed her to find joy in both her scientific pursuits and her family life. Even years later, she would quip, "Oh but I am going home to do the real work - unpaid. This is my hobby at work".
Advocacy and Progress
Throughout her career, Deidre has been a strong advocate for gender equality in science. She observes, "Even after we teenagers of the 60s thought we had solved the problem of gender inequality by advocating education, my own daughters in different professions still come across brick walls, headaches and inappropriate attitudes". Her message to young women is clear: "We have come a long way, but the struggle is not finished yet. Keep going, all you young women".
Recognition and Achievement
Deidre's contributions to chemical education have not gone unnoticed. In 2004, she received an RACI citation from the Chemical Education Division and was named the Nyholm Lecturer for 2004-5. These accolades underscore her significant impact on science education.
Image: Deidre receiving her RACI citation in 2004
The Next Chapter: The Good Little Banksia Lady
Retirement brought new adventures for Deidre. She embraced this phase with characteristic enthusiasm, dubbing herself "the Good Little Banksia Lady". Together with her husband, she cultivated Gondwanan flowers on their hobby farm, demonstrating her enduring love for nature and science.
Image: Deidre with Banksia flowers, circa 2007
Continuing Education Efforts
Even in retirement, Deidre's commitment to science education remains unwavering. She continues to contribute to the Science Expo at Camden Public School, helping to develop the "Superior Scientists" program. This initiative allows Year 5-6 students to create and present their own science demonstrations. Deidre reflects, "Deidre and Jo both feel so privileged to work with such enthusiastic students and families, and are continually thankful to the school to keep inviting them back".
Image: Deidre at the 2024 Science Expo, wearing her RACI scarf
Dr Deidre Tronson's story is one of passion, resilience, and continuous growth. Her journey from a young mother in the lab to a respected scientist and educator is an inspiration to all, especially women in STEM fields. Her life exemplifies the joy of pursuing one's passion and the importance of balancing personal and professional life.
A Legacy of Scientific Excellence
Deidre's passion for science has clearly influenced her children. She proudly notes, "All my three children obtained science degrees, two of them PhDs, and one of the three has continued in a laboratory-based profession." This achievement speaks volumes about the scientific environment fostered in their home. Deidre reflects, "They are also going through different phases," highlighting that, like their mother, her children are navigating their own unique career journeys.
Deidre's Poem: Quick glances in the Mirror of Time
\WISENET JOURNAL #79
“In Full Bloom” November 2008
Poem entitled “Quick glances in the mirror of time” p.7 http://www.wisenet-australia.org/
Motherhood poem first published:
Quick glances in the Mirror of Time.
In order to prove that my brain wasn’t jelly,
When the lab coat wouldn’t reach over my belly,
I just donned another – put on front to back.
No-one was going to think I was slack!
With the fume-hood protector pulled down, almost closed
And the glassware behind it, all expertly posed,
My gloved hands measured and mixed quite ably
Would I finish the synthesis before the baby?
My mates never mentioned these eccentric displays;
They had helped me develop some safe working ways.
So this was an everyday, workaday view
As they treated me just like a person, not two.
No-one can imagine the ‘motherhood’ feeling.
When the baby arrived, I was spinning and reeling.
Whatever would happen, apart or together,
We were now connected, forever and ever.
First day back at work: the fears left behind,
I enjoyed being able to indulge MY own mind.
It was not someone’s mother; it was ‘me’ they respected
And what’s more, my coffee was HOT, I reflected.
I was helped by my loved ones, cajoling and kind,
And the carer who understood little bub’s mind.
A ‘day’s leave’ each week was my own way to cope;
To keep my traction on the slippery slope.
One time, I felt sleepless and haggard and fraught,
But the lab full of students still had to be taught.
“Bad night with the baby?” they knew what was wrong;
They comforted me, and we all became strong.
On Fridays, was a greeting I could not understand -
‘Havagoodweekend’ – for I was on demand –
Weekend duty was cook, gardener, chauffeur and maid.
My hobby was on weekdays; for which I got paid.
The school years were hectic – activities galore
Meant driving some kilometres – and then a few more.
Leaving ‘notes’ in the kitchen, I thought that my role
Should be called ‘mothering by remote control’.
We’ve been proud of each other, seen benefit NOT blame
As each family member has achieved a new aim.
Like my friend, whose child’s painting was carefully prepared;
“My mum does experiments”, it proudly declared.
This poignant poem, first published in the WISENET Journal in November 2008, beautifully captures Deidre's experiences as a working mother in science, highlighting both the challenges and joys of balancing her career and family life.
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