Perspectives on Science

Federal regulations are typically borne out of crisis. This conversation will examine how policy is set, starting in the Progressive Era and moving into the present day.

Simone Turchetti, a professor at the University of Manchester and an expert grant-writer, shares valuable insights on securing funding for research. He emphasizes the importance of framing ambitious questions and aligning proposals with funder priorities. Simone discusses the nuances of various grants, including ERC and Marie Curie fellowships, and the critical role of narrative structure in proposals. He also highlights common pitfalls applicants face and the significance of presenting a compelling CV, as well as project planning to ensure success.

W. Patrick McCray, a Professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a series editor for Johns Hopkins University Press, shares invaluable insights on turning dissertations into books. He discusses how to select the right press and approach editors effectively. McCray details the importance of crafting compelling proposals and outlines essential steps in the publishing process. He also touches on the risks of repackaging work and the nuances between journal and book editorial relationships, providing practical advice for emerging authors.

In this engaging discussion, Olival Freire Jr., a Brazilian history of science expert, shares insights on the importance of collaboration while embracing individual work. Roberto Lalli highlights the role of effective communication and shared tools in interdisciplinary teams. Jinyan Liu emphasizes the impact of cultural communication styles and the benefits of international cooperation. Together, the trio explores whether virtual tools are transforming research collaboration and ponder the evolution towards 'big history'.

Arwen Mohun, a Professor of History at the University of Delaware, shares her extensive insights on navigating diverse career paths for history graduates. She discusses the balancing act between academic and non-academic jobs, emphasizing the value of internships and flexibility. Mohun also addresses critical topics such as gender equity in the workplace and the importance of finding mentors. Her practical advice inspires those transitioning out of academia, highlighting that a PhD equips graduates for numerous fulfilling roles beyond traditional academia.

Gleb Albert, Assistant Professor in General and Eastern European History at the University of Lucerne and seasoned book review editor, shares insights on crafting effective scholarly book reviews. He discusses the critical balance of criticism and the importance of connecting reviews to prior work. Gleb emphasizes the significance of deadlines, communication with editors, and understanding a book’s goals while structuring engaging reviews. He provides early-career writers with practical tips and encouragement to navigate the review process confidently.

In this engaging conversation, Christa Kuljian, a Johannesburg-based freelance writer and social justice advocate, explores her book on the intertwining of gender, race, and science. She sheds light on the pioneering women in science from the 1970s and 80s who challenged institutional biases. The discussion highlights Boston as a crucial hub for feminist science studies and the ongoing impact of these movements. Kuljian emphasizes collective advocacy for inclusivity in science and revisits the historical struggles and victories that paved the way for future generations.

Silvia Figueirôa, a professor at the University of Campinas with a focus on the history of science, joins Joseph D. Martin, an associate professor and journal expert, along with Doubravka Olšáková, a senior researcher and deputy editor, and Tiago Saraiva, a full professor specializing in editorial strategies. They delve into the intricacies of academic publishing, discussing how to select the right journals, the impact of open access models, and the politics behind publishing decisions. Practical tips for early-career scholars on navigating peer review and enhancing scholarly discourse are also highlighted.

David Zierler, the Ronald and Maxine Linde Director of the Caltech Heritage Project, shares his extensive experience in oral history, highlighting its role in human connection. Sara Baum, an oral history transcription specialist, discusses best practices in managing and transcribing interviews. They explore the advantages and biases of oral history, effective technologies, and the workflow from recording to transcription. Zierler also shares insights from compiling oral histories for institutional history projects, showcasing how they help preserve valuable narratives.

In this episode of Perspectives, we speak with Benjamin Breen and Jonathan Moreno on the history of psychedelic drugs in America. There is a resurgence of interest in psychedelics in the medical world as possible treatments for conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. This resurgence comes after a period during which psychedelic drugs were thought to be dangerous and have no medical value. An earlier perception was more optimistic. Figures such as Margaret Meade and Timothy Leary looked to drugs like peyote and LSD to allay fears, provide insights, broaden cultural perspectives and lead to chemical enlightenment. As mainstream institutions take yet another look, join us to examine the changing legal, medical and cultural perspectives on psychedelic drugs. Benjamin Breen is Associate Professor of history at the University of California, Santa Cruz. His second book is Tripping on Utopia: Margaret Meade, the Cold War and the Troubled Birth of Psychedelic Science. In addition to his academic publications, his writing has appeared in the The Washington Post, Paris Review Daily, The Atlantic, Slate, Aeon, The Pacific Standard, The Chronicle of Higher Education, The Public Domain Review, Nautilus, and Lapham’s Quarterly. Jonathan Moreno is the David and Lyn Silfen University Professor Emeritus at University of Pennsylvania, where he works on bioethics, health policy, and the history and sociology of biology and medicine. He is the author of six books and numerous academic papers, and his work as also appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Science, Nature, Slate, Politico, The Hill and Foreign Affairs. For more information on this and other topics, please see https://www.chstm.org/video/77474 Recorded on December 10, 2024.