Alice Dominici: Neurodiversity's Strengths & Struggles in Academia

Neurodiversity with Theo Smith

In this episode, Theo Smith interviews Alice, a researcher at Bocconi University, about her experience with neurodiversity.

Alice shares her journey from childhood to academia, highlighting her strengths in brain power and the challenges of control mania.

She discusses the impact of migraines and the realization of her neurodivergence, leading to an autism diagnosis.

Alice also explores the difficulties of getting diagnosed in Italy and the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in academia.

She emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary research in neurodiversity and shares her current projects at Bocconi University.

In this conversation, Alice discusses her research and experiences in academia. She shares insights into the challenges and rewards of conducting research in the field of gender studies.

Alice also highlights the importance of intersectionality and the need for more research in underrepresented areas.

She concludes by providing her contact information for those interested in connecting with her.

Takeaways

• Neurodivergent individuals often excel in academia due to their unique strengths and passion for research.
• The academic environment can be challenging for neurodivergent individuals, with blunt feedback and a competitive publishing process.
• There is a need for multidisciplinary research in neurodiversity to gain a holistic understanding of its impact.
• Getting diagnosed with neurodivergent conditions can be difficult in some countries, highlighting the need for improved access to assessments.
• Academia should strive for inclusivity and understanding to support the diverse needs of neurodivergent researchers.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Neurodiversity and Guest Introduction

01:06Guest's Background and Work at Bocconi University

02:36Early Years and Strengths in Brain Power

05:38Control Mania and the Cost of Overworking

07:07Migraines and the Need for Breaks

08:48Realization of Neurodivergence and Autism Diagnosis

10:51Challenges of Getting Diagnosed in Italy

14:28The Impact of Neurodiversity in Academia

24:49Transition from PhD to Research Role in Academia

30:22Challenges in Academia: Blunt Feedback and Publishing Process

38:49The Need for Multidisciplinary Research in Neurodiversity

50:15Current Work and Projects at Bocconi University

52:35Conclusion and Contact Information

This episode is supercharged by Dynamis Group

https://dynamisgroup.com/

You can buy Amanda and Theo's book 'Neurodiversity At Work here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Neurodiversity-Work-Performance-Productivity-Neurodiverse/dp/1398600245

Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything

#NeurodiversityAtWork #Neurodiversity #ADHD