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Asked by hand20yet to Arnold, Edna, Elkana, Gliday, Jacinta, Michael, Mike, Mmboyi, Sally on 8 Jul 2025.
Question: What are the greatest challenges that as a scientist you went through in life and what did you do ensure you overcame them?
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Michael Kimwele answered on 8 Jul 2025:
As a scientist, some of the greatest challenges I have encountered have revolved around limited resources, skepticism from peers, and balancing innovation with real-world impact.
Limited Resources: In the early stages of my career, especially while conducting fieldwork or research in developing contexts, I often lacked access to advanced equipment, reliable data, or consistent funding. To overcome this, I learned to innovate with what was available, build strong collaborative networks, and pursue partnerships with institutions that could support or co-fund my work. Leveraging open-source tools and embracing interdisciplinary collaboration helped stretch the impact of limited resources.
Skepticism and Resistance to New Ideas: Introducing unconventional or technology-driven methods in traditional environments often drew resistance or doubt. I addressed this by grounding my innovations in evidence, focusing on pilots and demonstrable outcomes, and engaging stakeholders early in the process. Communicating science in a relatable way also played a key role in building trust.
Work-Life Balance and Burnout: Science can be demanding, and the pressure to publish, secure grants, and mentor students sometimes became overwhelming. I overcame this by setting clear boundaries, prioritizing well-being, and surrounding myself with a supportive professional community. Mentorship—both giving and receiving—has been a lifeline.
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Jacinta Nzilani answered on 8 Jul 2025:
You know, what most scientists don’t tell people when they’re starting out is that in the beginning, you’re the one giving to science. It takes a lot of effort, time and sometimes even sacrifices, but science rewards you in the end… if you stick with it.
I honestly thought I had learned everything I needed in school, but when I got into the real-world workspace, it was a whole different ball game. Late nights, failed experiments and grueling literature reviews made me realize just how much more there is to it. Getting abstracts accepted at conferences? That tests your patience like nothing else!
It’s tough, but the key is never giving up ,even when you feel unqualified or discouraged. Just giving it a shot, pushing through those hard moments, and learning from the setbacks ,that’s what will get you where you want to go.
It’s all about resilience. Keep grinding, and trust me, the rewards will come.
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Arnold Lambisia answered on 8 Jul 2025: last edited 8 Jul 2025 1:37 pm
The greatest challenges I have encountered are trying to explain to a layman all the complex things I do in science. We are always told that we should explain what we do in very simple terms as if we are telling it to someone illiterate back and home (or our grandmother) and they should understand. This has forced me to enhance my communication skills and if you want to be a scientist you should start practising how to explain what you learn in very simple terms.
Science can be easy and straightforward but it’s always not a bed of roses. So there are many setbacks in science from failed interviews, failed experiments, slow progress in getting to your goal and you need a thick skin and being very resilient despite any adversities you get along the way. Nowadays, I am very open minded and I approach every setback as a learning point and keep on pushing towards my goal with as all the enthusiasm I can get.
Being in Africa, our country does not have science and research as one of the top agendas (we prefer to build roads 😃). Therefore, we can’t waste any resources we have for science as our current and future generations depend on our research to make life better. SO Ihave learnt to be appreciative of the limited resources and work with what I have to achieve my goals.
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Sally Odunga answered on 8 Jul 2025:
My Greatest Challenges as a Scientist
Self-doubt – I didn’t always believe in myself. I often felt like I wasn’t as smart as others and that I was being left behind.
Seeking validation – I waited for others to tell me I was good enough instead of believing in myself.
Fear of public speaking – I used to struggle with stage fright, especially when presenting my research to large audiences.
How I Overcame These Challenges
I found mentors who encouraged me and helped me see my strengths and believe in my abilities.
I read motivational books that reminded me I didn’t need anyone’s approval to believe in myself.
I kept showing up even when I was scared. I continued presenting my research in front of large groups, and with time, I became more confident.
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