Beyond the Lab Coat - Dr. Miguel Ramírez-González (ZHAW, Switzerland)
Photo: Dr. Miguel Ramírez-González in childhood and now
Did you dream of becoming a scientist as a child?
No at all. As far as I remember, I was mainly focused on the
present time. However, I can say that the thought of becoming a medical doctor once
crossed my mind. But it was not necessarily a dream job.
What inspired you to pursue science?
I think it was during the time I was working on my bachelor's
thesis at a research center in Mexico (Electric Research Institute). Contact
and interaction with researchers, whether at the MSc or PhD level, further sparked my curiosity about pursuing postgraduate studies. Probably, this curiosity
for science was already inside me as a child because my father is an electrician.
I remember that I used to accompany him when he had to do some electrical
installation. So, somehow, I wanted to be able to know how he did these things.
What do you love most about being a scientist today?
Well, I can say it is always about learning more. One can
probably solve a small problem just to realize that there are many bigger ones to
solve.
What’s one myth about scientists you’d love to bust?
Well, maybe people can say that scientists lack flexibility
because they are rigid, logical thinkers with no creativity at all. However, solving
a problem may require a lot of flexibility, creativity, and imagination to
explore a world of possibilities and see what is not evident at all.
What’s the weirdest or most unexpected thing you’ve
learned in your field?
Mmhhhh, I don’t think that it is weird or unexpected. But,
in general, whenever I have trouble trying to solve something, the best thing
to do is to stop thinking about it for maybe one day. Then, by retaking the
problem after this break, something comes to mind that helps me get out of the
hole I was in. This has happened to me many times.
What’s your favorite non-science hobby?
I like running. So, I have participated in several 5 km and
10 km races.
If science were a movie genre, what would it be?
I think it would be a combination of action (lots of chases
and fights), comedy (provoking humor and laughter), drama (due to emotional
conflicts), terror (capable of generating fear, tension, and shocks), and
suspense (a lot of intrigue). One thing is for sure: the happy ending is not
guaranteed.
What’s your favorite movie?
I guess I don’t have a favorite movie, but I enjoy a lot of action
films.
What’s your favorite book?
Probably, “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho.
What music or song always inspires you?
Probably no particular song. Sometimes I like listening to
instrumental music to relax a little bit.
If you weren’t a scientist, what would you be doing
today?
Good question. I have no idea.
If you could invite any scientist—past or present—to
dinner, who would it be?
Probably Albert Einstein. Don’t ask me why.