Search

I no longer define myself as a "failing scientist", but as someone who does science as well as a myriad of other things--including a vicious rugby tackle!

"Go for it--it's great fun and there are lots of career openings for properly trained clinical researchers," says David Edwards, professor of neonatal medicine.

"Tea-rooms and tea-breaks are a great scientific institution and should be nurtured and cherished. Lobby your funding body for subsidised espressos!"

There's never a dull moment working for a Spontaneous Idea Generator. The only problem is sorting out the diamonds from the dust.

"Brought back down to earth sharply when I realise that it will take the insight of Einstein, the prose of Proust, and the spin of Alastair Campbell to turn this mess of half-baked ideas into any kind of story."

The whole experience has taught me that you must believe in your research and that somehow things will work out in the end.

"I was so nervous at one high-powered meeting that by the time I asked my question it came out sounding really aggressive."

I start to panic as I realise it is now nearly the end of the week, and the majority of my to-do list is still undone.