History presented us with many outstanding scholars, while in more recent times there are many researchers and academics.
What are the assessment metrics and definition today of a scholar, an academics and a researcher, in light of his or her contributions to mankind?
Dear Eduard, Science and science or medical research is a passion for many, such as myself. People do basic, translational, and clinical research. Some have immediate application and it can be put to use. Some take longer time to put to use. Some, we might now how to use the findings for the benefit of mankind (unknown unknown). As time pass by, we will figure out that as well.
Some work to win a Nobel prize, some do it for fame, while other do it out of passion. Working on developing a new vaccine would find an immediate use. However, someone working to learn about the sociobiology of ants (out his/her passion) might not yield immediate benefits. However, it might have a larger impact for animal and human biology, in terms of environmental conservation, biological control, and food chain. Hence, every research is important in it's own right!
With regards to metrics, at least for now, we have the h-index. It helps to evaluate the impact of their research. We have to also bear in mind, inherently in some disciplines, not too much work happens. In such cases, it is possible that the individuals work doesn't get cited at often. A highly cited research might have a narrow focus and help a particular section of a population, while not so highly cited work may have a larger impact to mankind this is a possibility - it may even make a paradigm shift.
So, assessment has to be done carefully from multiple perspective!
Dear Colleagues,
Thank you for your valuable comments. Indeed the purpose of each scholar is to advance knowledge and its application for the betterment of mankind. The contributions are many and each fits perfectly with its own domain. It is also important to transmit the scholastic passion to you pupils to be the future scholars who will continue on their journey for many years to come after us.
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