4 answers
Abigail
Student
Rosemount, Minnesota
1
Question
Updated
2017 views
What are some key skills a scientist should know/learn when working with other scientific disciplines?
As someone studying geology, I will probably be working with a lot of engineers, physicists, environmental scientists, etc. in the future. So, I am wondering what skills with communication and technology are the most helpful when working with experts in other fields such as these!
Login to comment
3 answers
Neil Tolentino
Engineer
4
Answers
Irving, Texas
Updated
Neil’s Answer
Story telling and fine arts. I've transitioned from engineering into geospatial data analyst for some years now and it's very important to convey your data in a more exciting and eye-catching manner or you will lose your audience.
John Easton CEng FIET FBCS CITP
Design large computer systems for companies
53
Answers
Winchester, England, United Kingdom
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Abigail
Two thoughts. Remember that the other people you're working with may not know much about your specialism so you need to get good at being able to explain your terminology and concepts SIMPLY and in ways that they can understand / relate to. Think about everyday analogies for this.
Second thought - you'll have heard that a picture is worth 1000 words. Think about quick and simple diagrams to help convey your ideas or message. That always helps.
Good luck!
Two thoughts. Remember that the other people you're working with may not know much about your specialism so you need to get good at being able to explain your terminology and concepts SIMPLY and in ways that they can understand / relate to. Think about everyday analogies for this.
Second thought - you'll have heard that a picture is worth 1000 words. Think about quick and simple diagrams to help convey your ideas or message. That always helps.
Good luck!
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1091
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Abigail,
Interdisciplinary groups are the best! Everyone has a different skill set and ideally they complement each other and work well together. Since you work with people of different professional backgrounds you also get to learn some additional skills from them.
People being people, there is also potential for conflict. You'll need good communication skills and patience. For starters, the same words don't always mean the same things in another discipline. So, make sure you have a good understanding about what is meant by certain terms.
If you are working with people of different skill sets make sure that over time you learn enough of their roles and skills that you can keep on top of things and notice when something is amiss.
I hope this helps! All the best!
KP
Interdisciplinary groups are the best! Everyone has a different skill set and ideally they complement each other and work well together. Since you work with people of different professional backgrounds you also get to learn some additional skills from them.
People being people, there is also potential for conflict. You'll need good communication skills and patience. For starters, the same words don't always mean the same things in another discipline. So, make sure you have a good understanding about what is meant by certain terms.
If you are working with people of different skill sets make sure that over time you learn enough of their roles and skills that you can keep on top of things and notice when something is amiss.
I hope this helps! All the best!
KP