Dr. Terry Reynolds: Grace, Grit, and the Art of Discovery
If you ask Dr. Terry Reynolds what keeps her going after 14 years of working in entomology, the answer isn’t just insects, it’s purpose. As a Senior Research Technician and Collections Manager at the Agricultural Research Council, Terry has built a career grounded in scientific curiosity and sustained by a quiet, unshakable commitment to meaningful work.
From sorting insects and curating the National Collection of Insects, to managing loans, overseeing pest control, and engaging in public programmes, Terry wears many hats. And despite the intricacies of her daily routine, she finds immense joy in the micro-moments of research.
“My happy bubble is when I get to focus on research—especially parasitoid wasps. There’s still so much we don’t know about them. I joke that every wasp that buzzes past is a new species, waiting to be discovered.”
Science Chose Her, and She Chose to Stay
Terry’s journey began with an internship at Bayworld museum, born from her love for biology and biodiversity. She found the world of collections exciting and adventurous “There was always something new to learn, and that still remains true today.”
Even while earning her PhD in Zoology, Terry pushed through the fatigue and doubt, crediting her mother as her unwavering source of support.
“She never doubted me. Every degree I’ve earned is because of her belief in me.”
Leading with Kindness and Integrity
Terry’s leadership philosophy is rooted in kindness, empathy, and knowledge sharing. She sees leadership not as a position of control, but one of service and support, encouraging junior staff to surpass her and helping team members grow in their own right.
“A good leader passes down knowledge and allows others to shine. I believe in transparency, and I try to meet people where they are.”
Her style is a refreshing blend of compassion and excellence, a gentle but firm approach that values collaboration over command.
A Moment of Recognition and Growth
Now approaching 40, Terry views the Emerging Leaders Workshop as a timely gift.
“It’s now or never,” she says with a laugh. “But in all seriousness, I’m so grateful to be acknowledged. I think I’ve shown a genuine love for collections and what the NSCF stands for.”
Though she’s developed as a researcher, Terry admits she’s still learning how to lead people, and hopes to gain formal soft-skills training in conflict resolution, time management, and leadership. She sees this opportunity as a bridge between her scientific expertise and the managerial capacity she’s growing into.
Vision for the Future
Terry dreams of a collections landscape where digitization is prioritized, permanent staffing is secured, and collections are better mobilized and shared. She believes that young professionals have the power to inject new energy into the system, bringing not just modern skills, but fresh ways of thinking that can enhance efficiency and sustainability.
A Scientist With Heart
Her favourite memory? The day she named her first species, Cryptopimpla neili, after her father; a full-circle moment of honour and discovery. And while she jokes about swirling her teabag the perfect number of times, it’s clear that Terry Reynolds is serious about the things that matter most: her team, her craft, and her calling.
“When it gets tough, I write down a win—any win, however small. It helps me see that I’m doing okay.”
A scientist, a mentor, and a leader in the making, Dr. Terry Reynolds reminds us that even in the complex world of taxonomy and curation, grace and grit go a long way.