(Replay) 005: Eva Baker: An Architect Specializing in Laboratory Planning

Replaying our interview with Eva Baker AIA, LEED AP BD+C. Eva is an architect who specializes in laboratory planning. She is currently a Senior Associate and Director of the Philadelphia Office of HERA Laboratory Planners.

We talk about:

- Eva's pairing of a Bachelor degree in Chemistry with a Master's degree in Architecture so that she could combine two of her passions.

- Whether she followed the advice of her mentors to focus on general architecture before diving into laboratory expertise.

- I ask Eva what are the important components to consider when designing a lab including structural modules, safety, flexibility, MEP, and equipment and then we also talk about emerging trends in laboratory design like the integration of automation.

- We discuss her long path to working at HERA and how consultancy functions differently than an architecture firm.

- We talk about her favorite types of projects, skills she looks for when hiring, and how long it takes (spoiler- two years!) to become a lab specialist.

- Eva also shares about the challenges she faced when she returned from maternity leave, had to balance office work and pumping, late nights working "parent hours", the constraints of childcare, and the societal and self-imposed stress of motherhood and career progression.

- We end by talking about the importance of sharing responsibilities at home so that she and her partner can pursue meaningful careers as well as a successful family life.

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