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Staff spotlight: Deeptima Massey

Name: Deeptima Massey
Job title: Senior Research Manager
Year started at BSMS: 2022

Tell us a bit about your background

I was born and brought up in Delhi, India. Both my primary and secondary education were at an all-Girls school, established by a woman missionary as the education system developed across the country. I developed keen interest in Geography and went on to gain a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Master of Arts (MA) and Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in the subject from the University of Delhi. Growing up in the 1980s in India life was much simpler and less fast-paced than it is now. We relied on local resources and nourished traditional values. I cherished summer vacations at my maternal grandparents’ house which gave me treasured memories.

What’s your role like day-to-day?

I am a person who usually gets up very early in the morning and use the time and space to plan the day ahead and think of one task I could contribute to positively. I am responsible for running a varied portfolio of research projects hence no two days are alike. I like a combination of meetings and dedicated time for in-depth work. I am responsible for line-managing two colleagues in my team and like to ensure they feel supported, motivated and empowered.

What aspect of your role do you enjoy the most?

My role is incredibly engaging and dynamic. I like the challenge and chance to make an impact and build a sense of community within Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS). Learning about the breadth of research being carried out by researchers, seeing them advance in their careers, and supporting them in achieving their research endeavours is a major motivator in my work at BSMS.

In terms of successes, which accomplishments are you most proud of?

I am the only person in my immediate and extended family who pursued a PhD “abroad”. I did this two decades ago. It was funded through a scholarship from the then ‘Development Research Centre on Migration, Globalisation and Poverty’ at University of Sussex. I am proud of this achievement and know that my dear Mum and dear late Father share that pride. I learnt considerably during the PhD journey; it stretched me intellectually and helped me to gain skills that have been transferable to my subsequent roles.

BACKGROUND IMAGE FOR PANEL

How do you contribute to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment at work?

I strongly believe in the “power of dialogue”. Since I started working at BSMS, I have tried to meet most researchers across all career stages which has led to some open and honest conversations and helped create a safe space for questioning and collaboration. Gradually, colleagues are finding a common ground and a shared purpose to work towards i.e. making the school’s research culture vibrant, collaborative, and inclusive. They also feel motivated and committed to working together. In addition, working closely with the school’s research leadership team, several research processes and workshops have been introduced or reformed to appreciate diversity and foster inclusive learning.

What are your other interests / hobbies?

I am part of an active church community with different roles to support its work and mission. This gives me an opportunity to meet and support people of different backgrounds and living in varied circumstances. Over the years, I have made some lifelong friendships through this link. I also spend a lot of spare time doing artwork, particularly using acrylic and water colours. It provides a calming escape from daily pressures, and it certainly helped me overcome the challenges of isolation during the Covid pandemic lockdown. Having tea and cake and a good laugh with friends always lift my spirits.