We asked each of our scientists to give us their thoughts on their professions and what they think the future holds for humanity.

What would you recommend for students wanting to pursue a similar career?
I think that as we confront increasing problems of climate change there will be increased need for medically trained persons to engage in assessing and mediating the impact of climate change on human health. Students interested in this area need to expose themselves to clinical medicine and public health research. In the USA, agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as well as a number of renowned schools of public health such as the John Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health have large research groups working on these issues and there may be possibilities for students to do summer internships there. Students should check their websites and contact relevant persons. In other parts of the world, students should contact their relevant environmental agencies and universities.

What do you like best about your profession?
[I like] the variety. There is something for everyone in medical research.

What makes you most fearful for the future?
World leaders that refuse to see that it is important to protect the environment now for future generations.

What makes you most hopeful for the future?
Young people seem to be more interested in their environment than persons from my generation.