Unexpected conversation with 6 Nobel laureates scientists

Listening to six Nobel laureates sharing a moment is a rare opportunity and an unforgettable experience. Civilian reporter from Los Angeles, USA.

Photos TS.Martin Chalfie spoke in a conversation between six Nobel laureates with 1,500 ISEF candidates from around the world and hundreds of guests.

6 of the greatest minds in the contemporary planet sit together. It is a special event on Monday, May 10, of the International Science and Technology Competition (ISEF 2011). This idea makes people 'normal' like me excited but also slightly . panic, imagining the conversation will be super high, difficult to understand and can be hard.

The reality is different. 6 scientists talk very simple, full of humor, mention skillfully and inspirationally to many aspects of life. The large auditorium with about 2,000 people, including more than 1,500 ISEF candidates from around the world and hundreds of guests, has been completely conquered by speakers.

The students lined up very long waiting for their questions to be asked.

They include J. Michael Bishop (Biology / Biology 1989); Martin Chalfie (Chemistry 2008); Dudley Herschbach (Chemistry 1986); H. Robert Horvitz (Medicine / Biology 2002); Douglas Osheroff (Physics 1996); and Sir Richard Roberts (Medicine / Biology) 1993.

Those who directly "question" them are high school students from more than 60 countries and territories. Those who want to ask questions stand in a very long line before the stage to wait for their turn. Seeing the eagerness of the line of people, and hearing sharp questions, full of confidence that the girls, he was only 15-17 years old, some even younger, set for 'seniors' scientists, can see a bright future is open to world science.

Drop out of school to play billiards

Opening the conversation, scientists share the importance of passion for research, as well as the role of teachers in inspiring and inspiring curiosity to science. for students from early life.

The first questions of the students 'lead' them to tell simple but interesting stories. For example, Mr. Roberts recalled that the first thing that brought him to science was the interest in firecrackers. From a young age he liked to play with firecrackers and tinkering with various types of fireworks and admiring them. He joked that ' I can understand why terrorists like to play with bombs'.

When asked what is the most regrettable thing in life, Mr. Roberts said that by the age of 17, he suddenly got bored of studying and often dropped out of school to play billiards. Because he dropped out of school so much, he was threatened with expulsion by the school and at that time he thought about pursuing a professional billiard career, but then the principal persuaded him to go back to school and then became a scientist. outstanding learning. However, he said wryly, "I feel sorry that the principal made me miss a bad choice."

Dr. Horvitz emphasized that, to succeed in science, never be afraid of change, always listen to your heart's words and your passion. He said that he received a University degree in Economics and Mathematical Theory. In the last year, he enrolled in an additional 6 week Biology Admission course. After that, he went to his professor and said: 'I intend to go to graduate school in biology, because after 6 weeks studying with my teachers, I love this subject. Will you be too late? 'He replied:' I went to the University of Physics, I got a PhD in Physics, but now I am teaching you Biology, so compared to me, you start early! '.

As a result, Horvitz pursued his true passion and won the Nobel Prize.

An international group of candidates attended the ISEF competition, which is taking place in the United States

'What can babies use?'

Answering the question of a Singaporean student about the importance of basic research in a society increasingly focused on applied research , where scientists almost always have to articulate purpose and potential New users are looking forward to receiving funding, the speakers had a lively discussion.

Dr. Bishop said: ' It is true that many donors and investors now want specific results from research, but what we need to do is show them the results of basic research, despite the time frame. The time of such studies may be different from those of more practical studies'.

Dr. Horvitz emphasized the importance of basic research in expanding knowledge and promoting the progress of all humanity, and argued that governments are responsible for protecting, supporting and promoting this activity. Dr. Osheroff told a story about Benjamin Franklin, the inventor and one of the founders of America. When he went to France and witnessed the inventors of this country published the first hot air balloon, someone asked him what could be used to do? He asked again: ' What can an infant use for a baby?'

Two hours passed very quickly, but the content and experience shared by scientists is huge and difficult to convey within a single article. The students left with renewed excitement and passion for science was multiplied. They will officially enter the competition the next day, but more importantly, the research career will expand ahead.