David Day
Professor, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
University of Western Australia.
Native Language: English
Date: 9 August 2004

1. How would you describe the project/s you are currently working on to a non-scientist?
molecular genetics of plants.

2. Where, as a scientist, do you see the creativity in your work and/or life?
In the ideas I generate and the design of new approaches to investigate them.

3. When you embark on research, do you start with a defined goal or does the goal emerge through the process?
Sometimes I have defined goal and sometimes this merges as I proceed.

4. With regard to your research, how would you describe the processes and outcomes in terms of the concepts 'natural' and 'artificial'?
I think of my science as being natural.

5. Where do you gain inspiration and support for your work?
From the literature in my field, pat heroes of science, and government funding agencies.

6. How are possible applications from your research determined?
By me, usually in collaboration with colleagues.

7. Do you share a language with other scientists (across cultures)? If so, please describe how this language works.
Most serious scientists now communicate in english, but I use french when in that country.

8. Does your work encompass or involve a possible benefit (tangible or intangible) to society? If so, how would you describe this benefit to non-scientists?
The main benefit is potential new crops with enhanced performence and products.

9. Would you describe your future world view as pessimistic or optimistic? Why?
In terms of science, optimistic as this is a golden era for biology; but I am pessimistic about mankind's ability to manage world affairs.

10. Do you believe you share this future world view with other scientists (in your field) or would you describe this view as personal?
This is shared.