Scientific research, based on a Western worldview, is thought of as objective and neutral. Researchers choose protocols they believe to be objective, and funders reward them with grants. However, in my more than 30 years of experience working in higher education, I have listened to researchers talk about choosing protocols that will likely yield the results they are seeking. Is that objectivity?

Yes, I’m still a student — and I have accepted that I will be a lifelong learner.

Think back. Who motivated you to follow a STEM path? Chances are it was someone who made science both real and fun