Science transcends borders and boundaries. Collaboration is important in science. Open access to information is preferable. Truthful communication and transparent reporting are essential.

Integrity is key!

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 20/03/22

For International Women’s Day let’s pause for thought. From a moment of reflection* now it is time for thoughts to the future. What kind of world do we want for future generations?

I am feeling a sense of humility.

In troubling times we can see the worst and the best of humanity.

Having recently welcomed a third grandchild I am reminded of the strength and resilience of women in particular new mothers.

To all the amazing women in many different fields who I feel proud to know. The very visible people and the quieter people all doing their bit in troubling times in a complex world.

Here’s to resilience, hope and positivity.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 08/03/22

(* See the link to my previous IWD blog ‘A moment for reflection’)

I had the opportunity to visit Expo 2020 during my recent visit to Dubai and I am excited to share some of my snapshots and observations. The original start date having been delayed by a year due to the Covid–19 pandemic could now proceed for 6 months from October 2021 to 31 March 2022, providing the world with some much-needed messages of happiness, resilience, hope and positivity.

World Expos occur every 5 years and this is the first ever to be held in the Middle East. Around 192 countries are represented. There are three core themes – namely Sustainability, Mobility and Opportunity. The motto of Expo Dubai is “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future”.

Some snapshots and highlights from a day’s visit to the Dubai Expo.

Welcome…

There is fun for all the family and for grown-ups, kids, or grandkids alike. For example: Featured in these snapshots are the enchanting ball pool experience in the Hungary pavilion; the Petit Prince theme in the France pavilion; the popular Water Feature outdoors.

Country Pavilions
Dubai Expo includes pavilions where different countries showcase their achievements in arts, culture, sciences, and business.

An impressive example is the UAE pavilion:

I was particularly drawn to the theme of Open Access to knowledge.

It was interesting to learn more about cutting edge research and innovative approaches in the UAE.

The vision and dreams for a better world were inspirational from a historical perspective and, also continued as a theme for the future.

In summary, of course this short report is just a snippet of what there is to see and experience at the Dubai Expo. Combining a family outing with business and professional curiosity, and with young grandchildren in tow, our small family group made the most of a day visit from 10am to 4pm. We walked 10km! My only regret was I didn’t get to go back, spend more time there and explore more of the many exhibitions and events on offer.

Finally, to close here is a photo at dusk in Dubai.

If you get the chance, I recommend a visit to the Dubai Expo.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 21/02/22

Content counts in communications – as illustrated in this short verse, a parody of meaningless content. In many arenas including science communications (and also of course in politics) we often hear the same old same old same old words, and they can merge into background crowd noise. Indeed, people may stop listening. I am posting this thought with a verse and a dollop of healthy scepticism to make a point 😉.

RHUBARB, RHUBARB ©
(A verse to be read aloud)

Rhubarb …

Rhubarb Rhubarb.

Rhubarb!

Rhubarb Rhubarb Rhubarb.

Rhubarb Rhubarb Rhubarb.

Rhubarb Rhubarb.

Rhubarb!

©Julie Charlesworth 2021

N.B. In theatre and film there is a practice of actors saying the word rhubarb repetitively to mimic the sound of indistinct conversation.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 16/02/22

Cancer Research and Communications.

On World Cancer Day – I am looking forward to progress in the field! I have been reflecting from my PhD and post doc days of carcinogenesis and DNA repair research, then to clinical research, drug development, and medical affairs and communication. Cancer research is a fascinating area encompassing basic science and important work in cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and drug development to meet medical needs. There are some fascinating and very worthwhile career opportunities for those starting out and more seasoned researchers.

Like other research areas the challenges of the covid pandemic have impacted on cancer research including funding, and events.

Just now remembering a 2019 pre-covid in-person event in honour of World Cancer Day.

Finally, a ‘high five’ to workers in cancer research globally for their tireless efforts to continue important work in difficult times.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 4/02/22

It seemed timely for a global outlook, and for me an element of trust in science was needed (particularly for this photo taken recently at Expo Dubai).

I recently embarked on a trip with several purposes. There will be more to come from me about this global event linking innovation, technology, art, and culture.

Meanwhile, I think this quick post is a refreshing change for the start of 2022 after feeling somewhat ‘washed out’.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 18/01/22

Life throws all sorts of hardships at each and every one of us. These ‘pandemic years’ have been particularly harsh on us all; myself and my family are no exception. There have been some good times too.

Wishing you the resilience to carry you through difficult times, different perspectives to see things in balance, and a positive outlook for the future.

A frosty morning in January and a brighter outlook from home in the UK.

To good times and happy surprises too!

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 17/01/22

What a good time to be involved in research and communications!

Life sciences are contributing to our understanding of the world and providing solutions and hope for the future.

I am grateful for the opportunities which have enabled me to contribute. Thank you to all those who have supported me over the years.

There is much to be done in these areas and great potential for exciting, interesting, and fulfilling work and careers.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 11/01/22

‘It pays to keep an open mind, but not so open your brains fall out’. 😉

(Attributable to various people including serious scientists with a sense of humour)

In matters of science, an open mind with a dollop of healthy skepticism is sensible.

Keep thinking, seek the truth, ask for evidence.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 07/01/22

How about a Quantum Leap in a different field to start 2022?

Quantum Technology: a new technology that will impact society and the future of sciences.

The new year is often a time to reflect as well as to look forward. In my brief report around this time last year, I included some metaphors to help with the understanding of a complex subject.

I think it is good to challenge yourself to explore unfamiliar subjects and you certainly gain respect for other disciplines!

The world needs specialists and generalists and some people can be either or both.

by Dr Julie Charlesworth 04/01/22