Question: Do you think you might discover an insurmountable scientific breakthrough through your jobs?

Charlotte Slade answered on 17 Mar 2025:

Do I think I’ll discover some mind-blowing scientific breakthrough? Honestly? Probably not, patents are probably the closest I’ll get – and that’s totally okay! 🔬

Here’s the thing about science most people don’t get: breakthroughs aren’t these massive, Hollywood-style moments. They’re tiny, incremental steps that slowly build our understanding of the world.

My work is more about:
• Helping other scientists see things differently
• Creating tools that make incredible research possible
• Solving puzzles nobody’s solved before
• Supporting the researchers who MIGHT make those big discoveries

Think of it like being part of an enormous team. Some days I’m designing an instrument that lets someone else see something revolutionary. Other days I’m helping solve a technical problem that might lead to something amazing.

The most exciting breakthroughs often come from unexpected places. The scientist who develops a game-changing solar panel might be using an instrument my team designed. The researcher who understands a new cancer treatment might be using our surface analysis techniques.

So while I might not be the one making the front-page scientific discovery, I’m definitely part of the team that makes those discoveries possible. And honestly? That feels pretty awesome. 😄

Science is a team sport – and I’m proud to be a key player! ✨