Nicolas Voelcker
Senior Lecturer
Flinders University of South Australia
School of Chemistry, Physics and Earth Sciences
Native Language: German
Scientific Field of Enquiry/Research: Chemistry, Nanotechnology
20 August 2004

1. How would you describe the project/s you are currently working on to a non-scientist?
We are developing new materials and surfaces to detect diseases and to perform in a human body

2. Where, as a scientist, do you see the creativity in your work and/or life?
Detecting principles in living organisms is not creative as such, but the process of translating this into artificial materials and sensors is where I see my creativity employed.

3. When you embark on research, do you start with a defined goal or does the goal emerge through the process?
Both, usually the goal comes first, but we might be diverted further down the track.

4. With regard to your research, how would you describe the processes and outcomes in terms of the concepts 'natural' and 'artificial'?
Using natural concepts to build artificial materials.

5. Where do you gain inspiration and support for your work?
Scientific literature, other literature, directly from nature.

6. How are possible applications from your research determined?
Our research is quite applied to the biomedical field, e.g. biosensing, biomineralisation and biomaterials.

7. Do you share a language with other scientists (across cultures)? If so, please describe how this language works.

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?
Benefits for human health

9. Would you describe your future world view as pessimistic or optimistic? Why?
Rather pessimistic.

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