Understanding and Managing Imposter Phenomenon Within the Marine Sciences: Insights From 314 Years of Cumulative Experience

Imposter phenomenon is widely felt in academia, yet its lived experience within marine science remains underexplored. To address this gap, in this commentary we draw on the collective reflections of a diverse group of interdisciplinary marine researchers who have (and continue to) experience imposter phenomenon. We examine how it emerges, how it affects our careers, and how we have learned to navigate it. Our experiences reveal a broad range of triggers, including toxic or exclusionary work cultures, disciplinary gatekeeping, comparison and performance pressure, gendered expectations, life transitions, and identity-linked insecurities such as not fitting normative assumptions about what a “marine scientist” looks like. The impacts of imposter phenomenon were similarly varied: withdrawal from professional communities, reduced confidence, self-limiting behaviours, avoidance of visibility, career instability, and emotional or physical strain. Building from this, we outline strategies that have helped us manage our imposter phenomenon over time. Supportive relationships (through mentorship, peer networks, and community) were central, as were professional therapy, leadership coaching, and building mental-health literacy. Many of us found strength in reframing negative thoughts, setting boundaries, seeking inclusive environments, and building confidence through meaningful work and collaborations. Maintaining and prioritising physical well-being, time in nature, and simple acts of kindness also played important roles in helping us overcome the challenges posed by imposter phenomenon. Importantly, several of us came to see that imposter phenomenon can carry a productive dimension. It can foster reflexivity, humility, and critical self-awareness, qualities essential for thoughtful and ethical marine research. By sharing our own experiences, we hope to help build a marine science community where doubt is met with compassion and care, diverse forms of expertise and knowledge are valued, and all of us can do our best work without questioning our right to be here.