Jyoti Agrawal - The Struggles of Balancing Work and Family Life in Academia

Work-life balance in academia continues with Jyoti Agrawal, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Nottingham, whose journey spans India, China, and the UK. In this interview, Jyoti reflects on pursuing a research career alongside motherhood, navigating career gaps, and rebuilding confidence after periods away from academia.

Jyoti shares a deeply honest account of balancing family responsibilities with academic ambition, addressing maternal bias, the impact of career interruptions, and the vital role of supportive partners and colleagues. Her story highlights resilience, adaptability, and the importance of compassion - both from institutions and towards yourself - when navigating life and career in science.

Before we get into the more specific questions, please can you share your academic journey.

My journey into academia began in India, where I pursued a Master’s in Biochemistry. With the support and blessings of my parents and wonderful siblings, I went on to complete a PhD focused on malaria immunopathogenesis in a rodent malaria model. Although the path was not entirely linear, I found the research deeply engaging. My fascination with disease pathogenesis and the underlying mechanisms has been a constant source of motivation throughout.

I got married during the final stages of my PhD and wrote my thesis while pregnant with my daughter. That period was transformative - I was immersed in motherhood and happily devoted to my family. At the time, I didn’t fully realise how this break would affect my career trajectory or my confidence.

While my husband was pursuing a postdoc in China, I chose to focus on our family, leading to a significant gap in my research career. When we returned to India, I completed and submitted my thesis, ultimately earning my degree. I briefly held a part-time teaching role at Udaipur University, but my passion for research remained unfulfilled.

We relocated again to Shanghai, where I had the opportunity to do a short-term postdoc at the Shanghai Institute Of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (SIBCB, now CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science), working on cell signalling in muscle cells. In 2020, we moved to the UK - right at the onset of the pandemic - which caused another interruption in my academic work. Fortunately, in 2021, I secured a postdoctoral position at the University of Nottingham, where I’ve since worked on two projects: one on VEGF splicing and peripheral artery disease, and currently, an exciting neuroscience study with Professor Vicky Chapman and Dr Federico Dajas-Bailador on peripheral pain mechanisms in knee osteoarthritis using microfluidic chambers.

What motivated you to pursue an academic career, and has your motivation changed?  

During my Master’s, I was deeply inspired by a visiting scientist from the Leprosy Institute in India. His lectures were powerful, emphasising how each step in research contributes to solving real-world problems and healing lives. His passion lit a spark in me and guided my decision to pursue a PhD.

While motherhood and the resulting career gap did temporarily affect my confidence, they never derailed my core motivation. The passion for research and the curiosity to understand disease mechanisms remained intact, even during those uncertain years.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in balancing academic demands with family responsibilities?

Parenting is, without a doubt, a full-time commitment. I’ve always made a conscious effort to keep work and home life separate, giving my undivided attention to my family when I’m home. But there are times when urgent deadlines or writing tasks demand flexibility and that can be challenging. I try to be very intentional with my time at work. If I’m efficient during the day, I can leave without guilt and focus on my family in the evenings. It’s not always easy, but this discipline helps me maintain balance.

Have you encountered biases or assumptions related to your role as both an academic and a parent? How did you address them?

Yes, I’ve encountered what’s often referred to as maternal bias. For example, there were times I needed to leave work early to pick up my daughter from school, and it was assumed I wasn’t putting in enough hours or commitment to research. It was disheartening because what wasn’t seen were the late nights and adjusted hours that I quietly managed around my responsibilities.

These experiences, though difficult, have strengthened my resolve. They’ve taught me the importance of standing firm and showing, through my work, that parental responsibilities do not diminish one’s capabilities.

Do you think issues like maternity leave, childcare availability, or flexible working arrangements impact women in academia?

While flexible arrangements and maternity leave are essential and helpful, they can unfortunately slow career progression. Breaks in employment can lead to loss of confidence, a pause in publications or funding opportunities, and a feeling of falling behind peers. It can take years to regain footing in a competitive academic environment.

That said, having a supportive partner can make all the difference. I’m grateful to my husband, who’s always encouraged me to prioritise my work when needed. He takes on more of the household responsibilities during those times, and his support has been instrumental in my journey.

Are there specific strategies or habits that have helped you maintain a balance between your academic work and family life?

I prioritise completing as much work as possible during office hours and only bring tasks home if absolutely necessary. At home, I shift my focus - doing housework, spending quality time with my husband and daughter, taking care of myself through exercise and relaxation. Having supportive colleagues and friends also makes a huge difference. I’m fortunate to work with wonderful people who’ve stepped in for me when I couldn’t stay late or needed flexibility. Their understanding has been invaluable.

Looking back, would you do anything differently?

When I had my daughter, I was deep into thesis writing. I chose to prioritise her early years - playing with her, teaching her, building her values. I don’t regret that decision. However, I didn’t realise how the career gap would impact me later, particularly in terms of confidence and missed opportunities. If anything, I might have tried to maintain even a small connection to research during that time, just to stay engaged. But those years with my daughter are priceless, and I cherish them.

What advice would you give to young women entering academia who are also considering starting a family?

It’s a tough balance, but also an incredibly rewarding one. My advice would be:

• Find a supportive partner - someone who respects your goals and shares responsibilities.

• Set boundaries around work, especially at home. Avoid checking emails or working, unless it’s urgent.

• If possible, seek help from parents or extended family - having that additional support can be life-changing.

• Stay connected to your field even during career breaks through reading, online courses, or part-time opportunities, if available.

Most importantly, don’t be too hard on yourself. Every stage of life brings its own beauty and lessons. With planning, support, and perseverance, you can absolutely thrive both as a researcher and a parent.

Thank you to Jyoti for sharing her honest and inspiring journey through academia and motherhood. Her reflections on resilience, career gaps, and support systems offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating similar paths.

Keep an eye out for the next edition of the series, coming out at the start of next month.

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This interview was conducted by Neave Smith and edited by Rebecca Pope, with graphics produced by Shauna Angell. If you enjoyed this article, be the first to be notified about new posts by signing up to become a WiNUK member (top right of this page)! Interested in writing for WiNUK yourself? Contact us through the blog page and the editors will be in touch.