Since 2004, Xiao-Wei Wang has worked at the Packard Foundation where she leads a program that aids the nation's most promising early-career professors in pursuing innovative science and engineering research. From inquiries into ancient microbes to exploring the evolution of galaxies, Xiao-Wei supports Packard Fellows as they dare to think big, take risks and explore new scientific frontiers. Xiao-Wei is a graduate of the College of William and Mary and Stanford University—completing her graduate thesis while working and parenting full-time. She cherishes her roles as domestic concierge, nurse, nutritionist, storyteller, counselor, Scout den leader, piano coach, chauffeur and custodian. Xiao-Wei lives in the San Francisco Bay area with her husband and two kids.
The self-proclaimed black sheep of her family, Xiao-Wei was the only one to skip the path of pursuing anything related to science, instead focusing on liberal arts as an undergrad - because she always knew she wanted to focus on community, volunteer work, and bettering society on the humanitarian side.
Today, Xiao-Wei is both a mom and a career-woman, explaining to us that she always knew she would have both - because she saw her mom do the same thing, and never felt the need to choose only one. Going on to explain, Xiao-Wei shares, “at the end of the day, being a working parent makes me a better parent. It makes me more balanced to have my own interests, and passions, and focus - outside of being a mom. That’s just who I am.”
And the secret to balancing it all? “Definitely keep your sense of humor, and make sure your kids have a sense of humor as well, for when they have to deal with shortcomings,” jokes Xiao-Wei.
Joining us to share her story, Xiao-Wei opens up about issues for women working in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields and beyond, mistakes she’s made while trying to accomplish so much, and the importance of women’s networks.
