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Weekly UpdatesTHE COLLECTED WISDOM OF ...
Name: Nigel Smith
Title: Incoming director, SNOLAB International Underground Science Facility, Sudbury
Q What's the best advice you've ever received?
"There's no need to polish a cannonball" was advice received whilst writing my PhD, that a solution should be suited to the task. Although meant to stop me forever tweaking my thesis, it's a sentiment I have frequently adopted since for other problems.
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Q What's the best advice you have to give?
Never stop learning - and have confidence in yourself to accept new challenges and exploit new opportunities. Although this philosophy has placed me outside my 'comfort Zone' several times, it has been tremendously fulfilling.
Q What person has inspired you the most?
From a historical perspective, I would say the Endurance voyage of Ernest Shackleton is my greatest inspiration. Having seen the rigours of Antarctica, I think his example of leadership is mind-blowing.
Q What's been your most gratifying moment, professionally?
Spending a year at the South Pole, surviving the winter and maintaining a running detector was a highlight. And of course, most recently, being offered the Directorship at SNOLAB!
Q Do you have a favorite motto?
I would say "carpe diem" sums up my life attitude, though not in the fatalistic sense of "memento mori," but more the taking of opportunities as they arise to live life to the full.
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