Apprehension around the field of science is not uncommon. The notion that this space is only suited to the most intelligent of people, who spend their days doing mathematics and fiddling around in a lab is a flawed one.
In Edward Osborne Wilson’s TED talk ‘Advice to Young Scientists‘, he offers a succinct commentary about the importance of science by saying, “What is crucial is not that technical ability, but it is imagination in all of its applications.” Wilson’s encourages the delving into the intricacies of specific disciplines, while bridging the inter-disciplinary gap with zealous curiosity, as well as accepting failure and the unknown. Science offers one the platform to seek to know and imagine great things.
Rhodes University is home to some exceptional minds and scientists and The Oppidan Press dove in and picked at some of their brains to find out what advice they may offer to aspiring scientists, while asking how the misconceptions about science may be eradicated. Here is their advice to Rhodes University scientists:
1. There is no need to be entirely sure of the career one wants to pursue
World renowned entomologist, Professor Martin Hill, often says it is alright to be unsure of the career one wants to pursue one day. However, one should be clear in knowing what one does not want to do. Hill goes on to say that being driven and having an enthusiasm for the natural sciences is the key to success in this field. It is also important to be able to communicate the science one is undertaking in order to inform the surrounding community of your aims and methods. The key to science is application. One must ask how one’s research can apply to the public, in a way that would benefit them as well. This is one of Hill’s fundamental philosophies.
2. Have a curious mind and persevere
BioBRU biochemist, Dr Adrienne Edkins, conducts cancer research. Edkins stated that a mind curious mind the world around it is essential for any scientist. University is not meant to be about how much information one is capable of holding, but rather, it should be about the amount of growth and understanding of that knowledge that one acquires. Edkins emphasises the need to persevere through one’s undergraduate degree as a Science student, for postgraduate studies holds many opportunities to grow further and study things of great interest to you, applying the analytical skills that one would have developed during one’s undergraduate. Intellectual freedom awaits those striving to do enter their postgraduate studies in science.
3. Be driven and have an open mind
Organic chemist, Dr Rosalyn Klein and marine biologist Professor William Froneman both emphasised how important it is to have a curious mind and a dedicated and motivated attitude towards the unconventional work one will undertake as a scientist. They point out that being a scientist isn’t about being the smartest, but having drive and enthusiasm for what one does and having the constant need to learn about and discover new things. Being open-minded and applying one’s knowledge will inevitably shape one’s outlook on life and the world. Froneman reiterated how jobs within the scientific field are not ordinary and one needs to be prepared to sacrifice one’s time for broadening the world’s horizons.
4. Invest in yourself through mental and physical stimulation
Professor Nigel Barker, a biodiversity scientist specialising in systematics, population genetic diversity and biogeography, encourages the investment in one’s self – be it in developing skills in writing, or financial and management skills. He firmly believes that science is a discipline that requires willpower and a motivated mind in order to succeed. This cannot be achieved overnight. It required determination. He suggests things like sport and chess, that stimulate the mind and allow the mental juices to flow. Technology has become such a prominent component of our lives and we tend to misuse this by deviating from growing and expanding our knowledge base. Instead, Barker emphasised the need for general knowledge: reading as much as one can around their relevant field will allow for a steady journey towards success.
5. Life is unpredictable and may disappoint you, but don’t give up
Dr Caroline Knox, a microbiologist focusing on virus-host interactions, looks at science from a personal point of view. She aptly explains how various positive and negative issues influence our lives and the way we view the world, which in turn shapes our perspective toward science and the questions we ask. Knox knows just how unpredictable the field of science can be, so the subjects one studies at university don’t necessarily assign one’s life to a specific field of research. Science is so vast and developing one’s knowledge can lead to unprecedented outcomes. Experiments that don’t produce the results one wants are not necessarily failed studies. She elucidates that working with biological systems will inevitably involve a significant amount of unpredictability and disappointment, but that should be no reason for becoming despondent and giving up. It may be surprising what can be learned if one accepts the guidance and advice from fellow scientists and superiors. Barker makes a pertinent point in this regard: learn how to manage disappointment. Failure is a part of life, but it does not signify the end of the world. Hard work and dedication are key to getting to where one wants to be in the scientific world.
6. Have hope and keep at it
It can be seen that being a scientist is not necessarily reserved for the select few, but can be pursued by all who wish to learn and discover the wonders of the world and contribute to the ever-growing expanse of knowledge in the field of science. Science is a field in dire need of driven and curious-minded people. There is much to be discovered and done to make the lives of communities and societies better, by understanding the world around us and the intricate mechanisms at work. Seek advice and consolation from superiors; as they truly know best and can speak strongly from their experiences. Life will always deal us challenges, and although science is a competitive field, aspiring scientists should not lose hope or be demoralised by the obstacles science presents: a curious mind, commitment and a pure drive to make a difference is what it takes to make a difference in the world of science today.
Words by Sarah Carroll
Picture credit: Oppidan Press
- This article was published on Oppidan Press.