Lens or Sparkle: Is Focus Overrated in Scientific Careers

Lens or Sparkle: Is Focus Overrated in Scientific Careers

Our speaker, Professor Hugh Montgomery OBE is a Professor of intensive Care Medicine at UCL, a world-renowned researcher, and an award-winning author. His career spans medicine, artificial intelligence, writing, and climate action, demonstrating firsthand how interdisciplinary work fuels innovation and impact. He led the discovery of the first 'gene for human fitness,' directed the Centre for Human Health and Performance at UCL, served as a key advisor during the COVID-19 pandemic, and co-chairs the 47-country Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change. Beyond academia, he has worked with DeepMind on AI in healthcare, contributed to international climate policy, written award-winning fiction, and even presented the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures.

Why This Matters?

Scientific careers are often associated with deep specialisation and a singular focus, but is that the only path to success? In this talk, Professor Montgomery will challenge conventional wisdom on career progression in science. He will explore why embracing multiple projects, working across disciplines, and collaborating with different teams and organisations can enhance innovation, impact, and personal fulfillment.

What to Expect

• 20-minute Presentation: Hugh will share key insights on the advantages of maintaining a broad and varied career, how interdisciplinary work fuels progress, and why stepping outside a single specialism can open unexpected doors.

• 20-minute Q&A: Your opportunity to ask questions and dive deeper into the discussion.

• 20-minute Informal Networking: Meet other attendees, exchange ideas, and grow your network.

Not a natural networker? Don’t worry—we’ll provide a guide to help you connect with ease and will be on hand to support these connections.

Why Attend?

• Gain new perspectives on how diverse career experiences can enhance creativity, adaptability, and impact in research.

• Challenge the traditional narrative of career specialisation and explore alternative paths to success.

• Connect with researchers, academics, and professionals across disciplines to explore potential collaborations.

This event is perfect for anyone currently involved in research, exploring opportunities to collaborate, or seeking inspiration to enhance their research journey.

Free Registration

This is a free in-person event. We encourage you to arrive early on the day to ensure your place and avoid disappointment. If your plans change and you can no longer attend, please let us know so we can offer your place to someone else.

Don’t miss the next session in this inspiring series designed to foster innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration in research at UCL. We look forward to seeing you there!

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to us at cimec@ucl.ac.uk