Mathilde His

Over 40 years of research, I learned #26: as well as professional audiences, it's important to be able to explain your research to non-specialists, including friends and family (40 years ago, on seeing my 1st paper, my dad said: I don't understand a word, but well done!).

Over 40 years of research, I learned #12: how important it is to speak about research in a clear and entertaining way. This needs training and practice. For my first talk, I was physically sick beforehand, forgot my lines, froze at the questions. I think I got better with time.

Over 40 years of research, I learned #2: before drafting a manuscript, to write out the core message of the work in a single sentence. (I used to do this on a yellow post-it note: other media now available).

Over 40 years of research, I learned: #1 Collaboration is better than competition. Occasionally you will be taken advantage of, but overall, benefits far outweigh any costs. And you will have a lot more fun