Introducing the ISBD EMCC Co-Chairs
Dr. Jacob Crouse, ISBD EMCC Co-Chair
It has been such a privilege to contribute in a small way to the ISBD EMCC over the past year and a half. I have made wonderful connections, grown personally and professionally, and feel (through my stronger connection to ISBD) that I have found a professional home in the Society more generally.
My vision for ISBD takes the following form. First, I would like to take stock of where the EMCC has been since its inception, and to see which of the EMCR needs require attention. The world has changed since that first survey (e.g., state of science in the US) and certain EMCR needs (e.g., funding) seem more salient and urgent. Relatedly, I would like to explore how we can make bipolar researchers as competitive for funding as people working in depression and psychosis (e.g., via awards, better spotlighting, etc.). Second, I would love to be involved in furthering the reach of the CoP (particularly to connect EMCRs living in low middle income countries to the ISBD community) and for the CoP to become an organic placed for meeting, learning/teaching (e.g., regular webinars) and for igniting collaborations. I would aspire to a membership of 100 EMCR members in the CoP. Third, I'd like to keep up the EMCC's excellent track record of publications in BDJ and continue this with perspectives and other survey-based studies (if relevant topics arise). Finally, I would like to do more to help tackle the stigma of bipolar and to encourage events that have the energetic spirit of World Bipolar Day.
Dr. Hanne Lie Kjærstad, ISBD EMCC Co-Chair
During my first term, I have enjoyed contributing to EMCC activities, including organizing the networking "bingo" event at the ISBD 2024 Conference in Iceland and presenting at the Community of Practice webinar series. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the value of the EMCC as a platform for community-building, collaboration, and support among early and mid-career researchers and clinicians.
I wish to contribute to a culture of openness around systemic challenges - including early-career transitions, research pressures, and work-life balance, through organised events and structured peer support. In particular, I see great potential in further developing the Community of Practice into a sustainable and inclusive space that fosters collaboration, knowledge exchange and a sense of belonging among early mid-career researchers and clinicians. This includes both educational content and practical support for professional development, such as grant writing, scientific communication, and building a competitive academic CV. I would also like to continue contributing to the conference activities tailored to this group, including workshops and networking events, and I am eager to help strengthen international collaboration and increase visibility across EMCC members. Given that many of the challenges disproportionately affect women in academia, particularly during the early to mid-career stages, I would also be keen to encourage closer synergy between the EMCC and the ISBD Women's Initiative.