The Joy of Science

I have been thinking a lot about the joy of science. Because science is seen as rational, scientists are often viewed as dispassionate by the general public and in the media. This is funny, because in my view scientists are some of the most passionate people I know. That passion typically comes with serious overtones but to me science is just fun. It is so great to have that aha! moment, to be able to explore the world, to create new technologies, to constantly learn new things. It's like being Indiana Jones and MacGyver only without the big rock or people trying to kill you. I think so often as scientists, especially in academia, we forget the joy of it. I hope that I always remember.

As Carl Sandburg once said, "Let joy kill you, stay away from the little deaths."

Title IX

An article by Tierney came out recently in the New York Times on the idea that applying Title IX , which is meant to give women equal access to education, to science is wrongheaded (see Tierney Blog). It argues that women simply choose not to do science because we are less passionate about abstract, quantitative things and so there does not need to be any change in the fundamental way academia in the physical sciences is run. I fervently disagree as do many others in my position. For a good review of the issues and responses I think that another female scientist's blog has summed it up very well (FSP Blog).

The wonderful world of science

I have just returned from the BioOrganic Gordon Research conference held at the Proctor Academy in New Hampshire. The breadth of science covered at this conference is astonishing and I have a new appreciation for the work done in both academia and in industry. While academic talks are more focused on basic research and are clearly led by a single researcher heading a small group, the industrial talks were of a more practical bent and showcased the incredible teamwork that goes into a successful project. It is a different but quite related world and makes me appreciate the science in both contexts.
On a different note, these conferences are incredible places to catch up with and connect to colleagues. For graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, these conferences can be a key opportunity to meet with some of the most influential and interesting people in their fields. Opportunities to talk about your science and your future interests abound and it is a great place to get a heads up on postdoctoral opportunities and job prospects. They also have some fellowships for students to attend. People interested in these conferences should look at the Gordon Research Conference Homepage (http://www.grc.org/). Don't be put off by the fact that you have to apply to the conference. It is a great opportunity. Definitely put your application in early though.

BACK FROM HIATUS!! A new mom to boot!

I apologize for the long hiatus. In the intervening time, I have learned (am learning?) how to be an academic scientist with an 11 month old child. On that note, here is what I have learned so far about being a tenure track assistant professor with child:

1. It is possible to be both a mom and an academic scientist with a vibrant lab. It is not easy, but it is possible.

2. Having a child, for me, is wonderful and was absolutely the right decision. My daughter really does make everything better, even when it is hard.

3. You learn to organize your time and let go of anything that is not really important. For me that included cleaning my house ( I now have a cleaning service.... and a slightly messier house.).

4. Leave lots of wiggle room in any deadline as, especially if your kid is in daycare, they can and will get sick and if you are the primary (or even 55% time) caregiver, you will not get anything done during that time.

5. You cannot be superwoman (or superman if you are a new dad) so don't feel bad about it. Guilt is useless.

6. It helps a lot to have a supportive spouse, an understanding lab and to find good daycare.

7. I love my job, and even though I have been traveling, and that is a bit tough, talking to people about my work and thinking about the science is cool. It is good to get adult time away where I am a professional and not just a mom.


I am sure that a lot of this is cliché, but thus far it is true to my experience. So far, so good.