I have just taken 2 snapshots to capture these moments: from my own back garden last night and from the front of the house early this morning.
I am looking Up from Earth – Up North in the UK.
What a glorious uplifting start to February!
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 06/02/23
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Do you take the opportunities to listen and learn more about areas beyond your expertise?
Participating in international multidisciplinary conferences piques my curiosity to explore areas outside my own specialisms. Indeed, I have found that this is often how I get the most value out of such events.
The EuroScience Open Forum (ESOF) is top notch for this purpose. ESOFs are exemplary in their scope and what they achieve. I have previously reported back on every ESOF since 2016.*
Whilst I am ready to launch myself into 2023, January has also been a good time to recap and to add a few more highlights and take-home points from ESOF2022.
I think you may find some of my choices surprise you:
The Covid pandemic: featuring frequently in several discussions under different themes at ESOF2022
This pandemic is something we have all been through. At ESOF2022 there were success stories, concerns, answers to questions, and suggestions for the future. There were thought-provoking discussions relating to how much was achieved and how much more needs to be done.
We need to continue to ask 2 questions – What else are we learning? How can we best prepare for different pandemics and other global or local crises in the future?
Spectacular Science: High profile advances and things to watch out for
Artificial Intelligence (AI):
There were lots of discussions about recent advances, the enormous potential of use of AI, and some dilemmas for society. A key take home message for me was that we should also be aware of possible hype around the value and capabilities of AI.
As I said in a recent post on AI ‘we should proceed with optimism, but also with caution and with ‘eyes wide open’.
The Quantum Revolution:
It was interesting to hear further developments: some have been fast and some less so (such is science). I found the discussions very interesting and personally they also consolidated the big leap in my understanding of quantum technology which I have already shared in a previous post in 2021. During ESOF2022 we were warned to beware the possible hype around this subject. Nonetheless, it is certainly a potentially exciting area and one to keep an eye on!
Space Science the big uplifting breaking news with images from the JWST:
The excellent coverage at ESOF2022 prompted me to write about this in a previous post where I also share my learning and a few further thoughts from this moment in space science history.
Watch out for further news and developments in these three high-profile areas.
Beware the possible hype.
Enjoy the thrill and joy of science!
Frontier research and an example closer to my specialist area of life sciences
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a major concern facing humankind now and for the future. I have mentioned and written about this topic before (and will again). At ESOF2022 I participated in a fascinating session on AMR in which experts described new research, novel approaches and funding issues. It was a learning experience for me. I was excited about new approaches and the passion of the research leaders and early career researchers. On the other hand, it is frustrating to hear about funding issues and the compelling need still for companies to take these ideas and developments forward on a bigger scale.
The funding and support of basic research is very important! Curiosity driven research per se can ultimately contribute more than research driven by apparent business needs.
The whole ESOF2022 experience
My reporting has covered some selected areas that particularly struck a note with me this time. In addition to important scientific sessions there were topics and discussions relating to business, policies, current global issues (wars, climate). Indeed, it was ‘an exciting programme around seven themes: Sustainable Environment, Cultural Identities and Transformation, Space for Science, Healthy Societies, Freedom and Responsibility of Science, Science and Business and Sustainable Academic Careers.’ Thought-provoking comments made by other people often resonate, inspire or prompt action.
ESOF2022 participation has equipped me with knowledge and understanding that I hope will enhance my contributions in communication, consultancy, and career mentoring.
I have enjoyed reporting back from ESOF 2022 and more widely sharing some of my learning and my own thoughts in posts and even in verse.
Finally
Science is exciting – there are so many stories to tell…
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 31/01/23
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*For further information on my participation (in person or latterly on-line) at ESOFs:
Participation in ESOF2022 and a quick summary of my ESOF participation over the years.
On July 12th, 2022, NASA (The U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration) released the first full-colour images from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).
The very next day the EuroScience Open Forum ran sessions at ESOF2022 to enable further explanation of the images, and to provide an understanding of the history of the JWST including the many different challenges and difficulties that had been successfully overcome. Sessions continued in Leiden and on-line throughout the week to enable questions, discussions, and debate amongst a wide range of scientists, politicians, and the public. Experts including astronomers, engineers, and other scientists were on hand to provide explanations of the science and the significance.
The excitement and enthusiasm were palpable. The speakers and discussions were inspirational to younger researchers, budding astronomers and more generally of course.
It was fitting to hold these sessions during ESOF2022 because in addition to the major role of NASA the success of this significant breakthrough was also a result of extensive international collaboration in which the ESA (European Space Agency) had a major involvement. *
I learned a lot about space science at ESOF2022 and I also realised how much I didn’t know. My curiosity was sparked, and this motivated me subsequently to go and find out more from other sources as well.
I would like to share some of my learning with you:
A few key points
The JWST enables us to look further back in time than ever before.
The reason why the JWST has been likened to a time-machine that lets us see into the past is that when looking at very distant objects we see them as they were in the past because the light takes time to reach us.
Infra-red (IR) astronomy is the key ‘game-changer’ to enable this breakthrough.
We were previously unable to see earlier galaxies and further back because they were invisible to us. Light that was emitted more than 13.5 billion years ago would be ‘stretched out’ finally arriving here as infra-red light.
Some of the science, engineering, and technological development involved
The JWST team had to put this large IR telescope into space because IR light is absorbed by water and our atmosphere is full of water.
An IR telescope needs to be cold; it is very sensitive to tiny amounts of heat. Therefore, the telescope needed to be a long distance from the Earth. However, it would then be in direct ‘line of fire’ of the Sun which is a massive source of heat.
A major challenge was that something had to be invented that would keep the telescope cold and ‘never let it see the Sun’. The solution was the invention of a unique mirror (6.5 meters in diameter) and ‘a sunshield the size of a tennis court’. This mirror had to be built on the ground to test that it would work. Both the mirror and sunshade needed to be folded up to be transported and to subsequently be unfolded far away in outer space.
Programme and project management
From my own experience in projects and consultancy (albeit not on this scale and in different areas) I am sure there will have been many challenges and learning to be taken forward from this large international, collaborative, inter-disciplinary programme. Important aspects would have included teamwork, leadership, planning and monitoring not to mention the politics and funding challenges that needed to be managed along the way.
I’d like to highlight the following points that immediately strike me regarding JWST:
1. The need for persistence: The story behind this programme sends a message of the power of persistence which led to ultimate success despite many challenges and setbacks on the way.
2. The importance of risk management. Attention to detail is key, for example what might seem like the smallest human error can affect the success of the whole project.
I also think this success story brings a message of hope to other individuals and groups when facing setbacks; emphasising the immense value of taking the learning forward when things go wrong or not exactly to plan.
Concluding remarks:
The JWST programme is great example of what can be done in science with collaboration, persistence, and support.
Big collaborative projects can work well and achieve enormous advances.
The JWST success sparks curiosity and prompts other questions to explore for example questions regarding the birth of stars, and even whether there is Life beyond Earth…
The world is watching this space for further discoveries to come (pun intended 😉).
Finally, it is very exciting because we are going to discover and see things we have never seen before!
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 27/01/23
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*The U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) led JWST’s design and development and partnered with two main agencies: the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA).
Post Script. Here I share my perspective of this ‘out of this world’ news. I’ll soon be back in more familiar territory – Life Sciences and related 🧬, clinical and health research which I find equally exciting. However, as the new year begins it seems particularly timely to have a quick look back and even beyond 😊 🚀.
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Here are some of my thoughts just now on Artificial Intelligence (AI) generally.
The increasing use of AI can be a bit ‘mind-boggling’.
There is clearly an important and potentially valuable role for AI in many science and medical fields, and aspects of life in general. There is a great deal written about this subject elsewhere.
At the EuroScience Open Forum in 2022 (ESOF2022) there were some interesting discussions on dilemmas about AI in science and society. In some of the discussions I picked up on a couple of phrases and opinions which I found thought provoking:
• A suggestion that AI would be better called ‘augmented computation’.
• A suggestion (in July 2022) that when compared with human capabilities in some respects, for example in publishing, AI could be considered at the level of ‘the gifted toddler’. However, capabilities do seem to be rapidly increasing and this is resulting in current debate and news coverage.
• It is concerning that in some instances with the use of AI there are dangers of asking a system to do something that it is not designed to do, and also potentially locking in prejudices that are not transparent or immediately obvious to others.
It strikes me that AI is here to stay, and with it there is great potential for it to be used for the benefit of humankind. We are already reaping benefits. We should however be aware of the possible hype around the value and capabilities of AI.
There are reasons to proceed with optimism, but also with caution and with ‘eyes wide open’.
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 16/01/23
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Is opinion change viewed differently in science and politics? Why might that be?
SCIENCE, POLITICS, AND TRUST.©
Here are some thoughts
I thought I’d share.
If I dare.
Because I think
It should be said
That reactions to
Changes of opinion
In science and in politics
May differ.
Here goes:
Scientists may change their opinions
It’s acceptable.
It’s respectable
In science.
When new data emerge
More evidence may mount
To support
A new hypothesis.
But what of opinion change
In politics and policy?
It seems it can be frowned on,
Viewed suspiciously,
Even looked down on
In politics.
But as information evolves,
Evidence or other reasons may mount
to support a new policy
or opinion.
What then?
Unquestionable devotion
Is not a given.
Public support
Can be based on reasoning or emotion.
Past decisions should
Be understood.
Mistakes can even be forgiven.
It’s not a time to appear aloof
When people deserve the truth.
As a scientist I suggest
Evidence-based change is best.
But decisions may be needed
In times of uncertainty
When evidence is limited.
Where opinions change
Truth, reasons, and clarity
Are a must!
In science and in politics
Engagement is best earned
Through honesty and transparency,
That in turn will lead to trust.
©Julie Charlesworth, 2023
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 03/01/23
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(Thoughts are my own but inspired by several discussions at ESOF2022.)
Wishing you all the best for 2023.
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 01/01/23
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By looking beyond, I find I am often better able to understand and communicate what is in front of me. This could be my mantra 😊😉.
I am just popping in here to wish you well in this quiet period – the lull before the New Year.
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 27/12/22
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[NB. I will shortly be sharing some thoughts and posts on some ‘beyond’ topics on which I am qualified to report and comment on more generally…
Of course I will continue to share and contribute in my specialist areas of Life Sciences, Clinical and Health Research]
‘It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas’🎄.
Season’s Greetings to one and all.
Ho Ho Ho 🤶.
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 12/12/22
A little ´trip down memory lane’ and a bright future ahead. Recently I had a catch-up meeting here with one of my mentees. This pub brought back fond memories of being my regular local pub in bygone years when I was a cancer researcher at the Christie*, so I took this quick snapshot for posterity. The meeting was very forward-looking though 😊.
A fitting photo for the run up to this festive time of year🎄.
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 01/12/22
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[*The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester. One of Europe’s leading cancer centres.]
Are you curious about what the future will look like for humankind? Are you ready for a voyage to explore the possibilities?
Indeed, I am!
Please join me as I share some snippets from my recent experience at the Dubai Museum of the Future.
On arrival my first impression is the immaculate, airy, and futuristic architecture and design of the building both outside and inside.
In the foyer there are wise words to greet the visitors. This particular inscription resonates with me:
“We may not live for hundreds of years, but the products of our creativity leave a legacy long after we are gone.” *
I don my wristband provided for the purpose of access control and with its scannable code to enable (literally) hands-on experiences and interactivity with many of the features on display. I am ushered into an elevator with my husband and a small group of other visitors, together with a guide (in person or digital at times).
Up, Up, and Away! Get ready to use your imagination.
The elevator is a now a rocket ship: the start of the journey to space. Feel the exhilaration and rapid ascent. See the spectacular views of Dubai below; other views looking back on Earth; views of planet Earth itself from far beyond. The doors open and we arrive at Orbital Space Station Hope (OSS Hope), the centre of the SOL energy project envisioning a world powered by solar energy. OSS Hope is a hub for science and innovation. The space exhibits are informative, educational, and interactive.
I am drawn to this quote “Space is for everybody” Christa McAuliffe 1948-1986, NASA STS-51-L, Space Shuttle Challenger.
On a fun note, an interactive themed attraction enables me to imagine myself as a future astronaut.
It’s time to get back to Earth.
We leave OSS Hope. On the way to the next level, the windows depict glimpses of Dubai in 2071. We head towards the next stop. It is the ‘HEAL’ exhibition with the theme of the future on Earth, and covering many challenges but also great innovative opportunities. We are told ‘At HEAL we are working to repair the Earth’s natural ecosystems’ ‘with the help of Artificial Intelligence and Bio-design’.
Today’s first focus is the Rainforest and in particular, the Amazon is digitally represented. How can we repair the damage from years of deforestation?
Next, it’s THE LIBRARY “HEAL’s DNA vault, where we store the genetic code of thousands of species” The displays of species are a scintillating spectacle! A hand-held remote device can be pointed at each exhibit to retrieve specific and more detailed information.
We are then welcomed to the HEAL Observatory and HEAL’s ecosystem simulator, where the impact of new species on their environments can be tested. When released into ecosystems around the world the impact of new species will be closely monitored.
There are many possibilities to ponder. For example, a fire-resistant tree – that sounds interesting!
I continue my descent using the stairway and arrive at the Al Waha (Oasis), where the theme is future happiness and well-being. The interactive experiences cover calm and connection, the senses and spirit. I admit that although I checked out what was on offer I spent relatively little time there which is ironic (but not unexpected for me). The theme is about life balance and taking time to look after our own health and wellbeing. I have something to work on – or rather just do more of calmly and enjoy! Another time I’d spend longer in this area.
As I descend the stairway I am increasingly intrigued and I find myself entering the exhibition hall, ‘TODAY TOMORROW’, This is ‘an ever-changing display of near future technologies’.
The room houses an array of prototypes and currently available technological products. It is a very interesting and informative exhibition, that also encourages us to look beyond the present to the possible. ‘Technology might be part of the solution of addressing our future needs but what questions are we asking of technology today?’ Here are some of the questions:
[On a different level there is a floor dedicated to a playground for children with their own world to explore, immersive games for their enjoyment, and challenges to complete, on their way to becoming “future heroes”. (Another time I’d bring the grandchildren).]
As I leave the Museum of the Future, I can report back that this is a thought-provoking voyage that also captures the imagination. ‘The ancestors plant the trees, the descendents enjoy the shade.’
As one thing leads to another, such tempting tasters can increase the appetite to explore further. If you are local or happen to be in Dubai, I would highly recommend this experience.
by Dr Julie Charlesworth 21/11/22
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[*His Highness Sheik Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum as inscribed on the Museum of The Future.]
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