Professor Jason Meyers, a biologist and neuroscientist, has a strong affinity for the liberal arts, which has guided his academic and professional journey. During his undergraduate days at Williams College, Meyers’ interactions with his advisor had a profound impact on his development as a scientist. This experience instilled in him the value of a liberal arts education, which emphasizes intellectual development across various fields. As a result, Meyers sought to teach science in a community that shared these values.
Meyers’ job talk at Colgate University, where he is now a professor, was a pivotal moment in his decision to join the institution. He was impressed by the students’ thoughtful questions and their genuine understanding of advanced ideas and techniques. This experience convinced him that Colgate was an environment where he could thrive, with a tradition of encouraging students to lead the discussion.
The liberal arts curriculum at Colgate fosters creativity and diversity of thought, exposing students to various academic fields. Meyers believes that this approach is essential in both the arts and sciences, as it enables students to develop innovative solutions to complex problems. In his daily work, Meyers experiences the “eureka” moment, where careful experimentation and design lead to unexpected and exciting results.
Meyers values collaboration with faculty from diverse academic areas, even if they are unfamiliar with his specific field of research. He sees synergy between different disciplines, such as art and science, and believes that this exchange can lead to new insights and approaches. However, he is concerned about the current political narrative, which prioritizes certain types of science over others, often minimizing the importance of basic research.
Meyers advocates for a more inclusive and nuanced approach to science, one that recognizes the value of all research disciplines, including those that may not have immediate practical applications. He believes that scientists should be encouraged to think creatively and explore new ideas, rather than being constrained by narrow focus or marketability. By embracing the complexity and uncertainty of science, Meyers hopes to promote a healthy skepticism and trust in the scientific process.
Ultimately, Meyers sees science as a creative endeavor, one that involves asking the right questions, finding solutions, and interpreting data. As the pedagogy evolves, he remains committed to the scientific method as a means of fostering growth, creativity, and knowledge in students. By embracing the liberal arts values and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, Meyers aims to inspire the next generation of scientists and thinkers to approach complex problems with curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.