What a great time to be involved in research and communications! I am thinking particularly of Life Sciences, Clinical and Health Research. These areas are important, exciting, and sometimes surprising. But what kind of research interests you?
BASIC RESEARCH focusing on fundamental knowledge delving into areas where we want to know more or understand better.
APPLIED RESEARCH using knowledge and understanding to develop practical applications, technologies, or interventions.
FRONTIER RESEARCH pursuing new knowledge and discoveries that challenge the boundaries of what is known.
Frontier research is particularly exciting, and it is often in the news these days. However, with new capabilities and potential applications can come questions of ethics. Put simply: Just because we can – doesn’t mean should! There again new knowledge and understanding can lead directly or indirectly to important breakthroughs beneficial to humankind.
I am grateful for the experiences of doing research, studying or communicating in all these subject areas and also the different types of research.
Speaking from experience there are many interesting career options. Life sciences are fascinating per se, and the Life Sciences sector is receiving a lot of attention from different governments.
I am noticing an increase in research opportunities advertised in academia or research institutes. I am also sure that many new opportunities will evolve in future.
It’s a great time to be considering a course, a career or an area of interest.
What an important and exciting time this is for undergrads, postgrads, and postdocs! How the world and humankind need you!
Let’s also remember that science is for everyone. Communication about research is very important!
In these rapidly changing times LIFE SCIENCES, clinical research, and health research contribute to our knowledge and understanding; find solutions and give hope.
There is much meaningful work still to be done and deserving of support.
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 20/10/2025