As we close this Fourth of July weekend, it’s fitting to reflect on our nation and especially on our esteemed faculty in science and engineering. We well know that these faculty contribute invaluable insights and expertise to the American science and engineering enterprise.

Many students they teach and mentor have not had the chance to travel outside of the United States and may never do so in their lifetimes. Exposure to those with different experiences and perspectives enriches our young people, helping them acquire a broader outlook without leaving their home environment.

Further, knowledge generated here impacts lives all over the globe. When it comes to science and engineering, we are an international community for whom political boundaries are irrelevant. There is no way to curtail the spread of knowledge, even if we wanted to. As with interpersonal relationships, knowledge will trump any and all artificial boundaries.

We stand united as one community with shared values: curiosity, truth-seeking, integrity, mentorship, and a commitment to expanding knowledge to make life better for everyone. These values transcend differences in country of origin, language or culture.

As someone born and raised in the United States, I have benefited directly from mentors who came here from other parts of the world. They encouraged and actively promoted me. Not just in the classroom, but through hands-on training, feedback on my work, and one-on-one discussions. They wrote recommendations that propelled me to the next steps in my career. If it were not for their support, I would not have had the career that’s led me to write this newsletter today.

Personally, I am grateful for the trust that readers of this newsletter have placed in me and in Wise Investigator. I hope that during this holiday weekend you will pause to reflect on your contributions, including the students mentored, the knowledge you’ve produced and shared, the problems you're solving, and the bridges you have built.

So, even when the clamor outside is discouraging, the work being done daily is a profound force for good. Our multicultural community is resilient. Please join me in looking forward to a future in which the contributions of all are fully recognized and sustained as they continue to shape American higher education.

Protect your deep work time this summer

This week, I’m sharing practical ways to protect your time for the deep, important work that drives your career forward, especially during these busy summer months. Even a few non-negotiable hours each week can add up to real progress on your biggest papers and proposals. Learn how to set boundaries, stay focused, and make the most of the time you have left this summer.

When you are ready, here’s how we can help

Need to get your research funded, this year? Check out our 12-week program to get you there.

Check out our storefront where you can access our free Unlocking DOD Funding for University Researchers course and other resources, including for faculty applicants.

Ready to book a call to discuss how our program can support faculty at your institution? Let’s chat!