The times, they are a-changin'

I had a chance to sample a lot of people's views on the state of science at MRS. In my opinion, it's both the best of times and the worst of times for our field. On one hand, the world is turning to science (and often materials science) for solutions to its most daunting problems: climate change, an aging population, terrorism. On the other hand, science is becoming more complex, interdisciplinary, and business-like than ever. It's not enough to just be a great scientist. You have to build and maintain collaborations, navigate political landscapes, effectively raise and manage money, and possibly reinvent yourself multiple times over your career. The demands on scientists are growing, which leads to new opportunities and new challenges.

 

Comments

[Building Materials]

Science has never been given the platform that it deserves. If we need a soilution to a problem we always look to science first.

[Hermes Birkin 2012]

It's so nice to have you do all of the research for us. It makes our decision making so much easier!! Thanks.