Dr. David C. Thompson presents The Myriad Mundane Maxims of a Middling Modeler

The Myriad Mundane Maxims of a Middling Modeler

David C. Thompson

Chemical Computing Group, Montreal, Quebec H3A 2R7, Canada

I will share the context and conditions surrounding my decisions to weave in and out of science-related roles. Focusing on a series of ‘choice points’, encountered throughout my career to date, I will describe the situations I found myself in, the options available to me, and the resulting ‘what happened next’.

I have chosen to focus on three ‘choice points’: my switch from academia to industry, a move away from science, and the final (and most recent) where I dabble in social science research. As you’ll hear I’ve been able to publish throughout, and I’ll discuss why I think this is important.

The act of ‘making science’ in a modern research-focused organization requires navigating a sociopolitical context, this is an important element of contemporary research that is oft ignored and seldom discussed. I will actively encourage you to consider your current activities through this lens, and hopefully provide compelling reasoning as to why this is important – both now, and wherever you end up muddling to.

Terms & Conditions:

• Attendees can expect a truthful telling of some choice elements of Dr. Thompson’s career to date.
• This will be delivered within the allotted time.
• You might laugh at times. You might not. Really depends on whether you find me funny. This always seems to be 50/50 if I’m honest.
• “Mundane Maxims” are offered as an organizing principal and not as ‘things you must do’. If there’s any one message I have for you, it’s that there’s no one answer or pathway, and you really do have to figure it out for yourself. But, you’re not alone. So that’s got to bring some comfort.
• If, after the first 10 minutes you decide this isn’t for you – no worries, you can leave. I promise. I’m not fussed. I’m even going to offer during the presentation. Better you do something useful, than waste 50 minutes of your life. That’s another theme, I believe this is called ‘foreshadowing’.