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Donna Nelson
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Statement
While a postdoc, I joined Sigma Xi as a Life Member, because I was impressed by the organization’s emphasis on excellence in scientific research. I was a postdoc with Nobel Laureate H. C. Brown at Purdue, so we all focused greatly on scientific research. These common interests between Sigma Xi and me ensured that I would want to belong to Sigma Xi for life. Although the major scientific and educational issues have changed, Sigma Xi must become agile and pivot to address them.
Sigma Xi should continue to partner with other scientific organizations on major scientific issues, helping to protect science against interference from politics and distortion. Sigma Xi has always stood for high ethics, integrity, and excellence in science and research. Sigma Xi members are experts, who can serve as advisors on current and changing scientific and educational issues.
Recently, the impact of misconduct in scientific research, inappropriate behavior, and dishonesty in scientists in the news is increasing. The impact on the public perception of science and scientists is further increasing due to included photos or even videos. Taking a leadership role in controversial issues of science and education requires courage and a careful sense of fairness. Leadership to avoid such situations will be challenging, but success would strengthen future scientists and science. Sigma Xi members should be capable of this.
Sigma Xi can be a force for the best in science, and its members are role models for the best in scientists.
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