Richard D. Smith
Battelle Fellow and Chief Scientist, Biological Sciences Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, USA
Qualities of an innovative thinker? I think it is the step that follows the birth of the idea, concept, or invention, and achieving an effective balance between having confidence in it, and simultaneously being open to challenges to it, both from yourself and from others as it matures.
Picking a problem… For me, it is typically the result of a problem or challenge being faced in the Lab. The need to do something better, or differently, stimulates thinking about the challenge(s), how things work, and doing what I think of as “running simulations in the mind,” where I consider the viability of possible solutions.
Most exciting development or trend? To me, the most important emerging development across our field is the effective integration of different data types, and particularly those involving larger and larger data sets. This is beginning to be done in conjunction with the application of advanced data analysis approaches, such as those involving Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. The challenges are still significant, but the rewards will be staggering!
Missing from the toolbox? Generally missing is the ability to take the incredibly effective tools and measurement capabilities we now have and easily design complex manipulations or e.g., sample handling steps, that extend beyond one analytical platform, and sometimes even within a given platform.
Controversial opinion? That those in our field are increasingly reluctant to openly question something; a data set, a publication, a widely accepted concept. Sometimes this is due to a fear of being “wrong,” peer pressure, or simply a desire to avoid a possibly uncomfortable discussion. I believe it is healthy for our science when to do so, as well as for each of us individually; and when you are wrong, and we all are sometimes, you benefit from a better understanding of the issue at hand!
