Night Science 57 | George Church and shooting for the stars
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Apr 29, 2024 George Church, a Professor of genetics at Harvard Medical School, discusses embracing outliers, taking risks, and changing the world without caring about credit. He encourages aiming high, mentioning shooting for the stars to reach the moon. The conversation focuses on the importance of failure in achieving groundbreaking innovations and the value of collaboration and openness in the research field.
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Shoot for the Stars, Lay Down Breadcrumbs
- Shoot for ambitious, sci-fi-like goals, even if they seem initially unattainable.
- Lay down "breadcrumbs" by outlining smaller, achievable steps toward the larger vision.
Nanopore Sequencing: An Example of 'Breadcrumbs'
- George Church proposed nanopore sequencing in 1985, combining existing single-molecule measurement technologies.
- This was initially considered "insane," demonstrating the importance of not dismissing seemingly impossible ideas.
Leveraging Differences
- Differences, like ADHD or dyslexia, can be leveraged as advantages in creativity.
- These differences promote unique perspectives and a willingness to explore unconventional ideas.