What makes someone a good Biologist?
Ask a Biologist Monday 10/25/21
Science is nothing without the ability to communicate it to the Public. An important part of being an effective Biologist is communicating complex science to those without the same background as you. If you can break a complex idea down into the basics and help another to understand it, then you truly have a grasp on that topic.
Answers from Biologists:
Honesty and accountability.
Not being cocky and learning from people in the field who learned from the land.
Knowing it’s okay to acknowledge that you don’t know everything but are willing to learn.
Empathy. Or at least an understanding of different stakeholder’s points of view.
Inquisitive mind, ability to think outside the box. And some math ability.
Using your position to make the field as inclusive as possible.
Creativity! In asking questions designing methods, executing fieldwork, etc.
Curiosity.
Being very observant and persistent, and open-minded in the wake of failure.
Good personality and a smile. Makes remote sites more fun!
Care about students, animals, and community well-being.
A baseline curiosity, paired with the ability to ask and answer scientific questions.
A curious mind. A little bit of drive. A lot of flexibility (the plan rarely works out on the first try.
Being open-minded to opinions and suggestions of folks you supervise.
Ability to stay calm and positive when things don’t work out in the field.
Willing to both ask and answer questions, especially the “dumb” ones.
Learning and seeking to improve yourself. Advocating for development/advancement of those you supervise.
Work ethic, dedication, and a solid understanding of the scientific method.
Creativity and a willingness to listen to others.
Staying curious and asking the right questions.
