Woman’s Month Feature- Taryn Bodill

Although she had only been at SAIAB for a little over a year, in June 2012 Taryn Bodill received a Special Award for her contribution to the maintenance and development of the Molecular Laboratory. The Molecular Laboratory provides a platform for the study of aquatic biodiversity at the molecular level, particularly at the DNA level. In 2005 a store room and adjoining dark room were adapted to provide a temporary laboratory in which a small team of researchers and students at SAIAB could conduct research in the field of genetics.

 Since then the number of researchers and students using the laboratory has grown considerably and as a result, a new laboratory was purpose-built in 2011 to cope with the added demand.

Jumping in at the deep end, Taryn found herself responsible for the management of the temporary lab which she describes as one of the most challenging experiences of her life. As Senior Molecular Laboratory Assistant, she has spent the best part of 2012 setting up state-of-the-art laboratory equipment in the new Molecular Laboratory. “What I found most challenging was managing a lot of people doing a lot of work in a very small space. The new lab and new equipment has made life much easier for everyone. I can safely say the new Lab has increased productivity.”

Having done her MSc in bio-chemistry at Rhodes University, Taryn worked at the Rhodes University Chemistry Department as a Bio-Assay Technician, where she managed a small lab. She describes her move to SAIAB as great. “I enjoy being situated in a research environment because it has enabled much space for personal and professional growth. I’ve learned a great deal about office administration as my job requires me to do a lot of administrative as well as managerial work,” she says.

  Taryn also interacts closely with the interns and students who make use of the lab.  She says working with students and interns has been very rewarding: “You interact with many different personalities - which can be very challenging at times,” she giggles. Devin Isemonger,  describes Taryn as “Totally awesome and she does her job very well.” Nomfundo Nkabi, says “She’s shy, but in a sweet way and very collected.” Elethu Duna says finds her, “Very easy to talk to… She’s probably one of the friendliest people at SAIAB.” Gavin Gouws describes Taryn as very efficient, “The lab wouldn’t run as smoothly as it does if it wasn’t for her.”

When asked about her future plans, she responds, “I plan on being here for a number of years; I think there’s still a lot more I can learn at SAIAB.” Her best moment at SAIAB was during SciFest Africa 2012 - “Interacting with little kids and seeing how excited they get about science is probably one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had SAIAB. I also participated in a June 16 ‘Sarafina Production’ to celebrate Youth Day".

What does she do for fun? “I read and go down to the beach on weekends; - Oh! That sounds like such a boring person….”