The workshop showed that virtually no project went as planned. For example, the mouse models required for Nienke’s research were suddenly no longer available. “I had a plan B, but I think in my case it would have been good to think about worst-case scenarios earlier.” Fortunately, she had built up a strong multidisciplinary network that could contribute ideas. Renzo had to deal with a collaboration partner who withdrew. ‘Communicate about it as early as possible if things don’t go as planned,’ is his advice. He says he has now changed from an ambitious optimist into an ambitious realist.
Mohit Dubey also faced a major setback: a colleague accidentally took the research samples he had collected for two years out of the freezer, making them unusable. ‘That caused a lot of frustration at the time. Now I know: ambitious projects come with major failures. Be prepared that you may have bad luck. Accept what comes your way and continue to appreciate what you do have.’ Like some of the other researchers, he advises focusing on the quality of your research rather than quantity.
Bee another researcher Data collection was not that easy at the beginning. Not all parties immediately saw the importance of her research. ‘Looking back, I wouldn’t have taken that resistance and lack of appreciation so personally. We simply work in a complex, international environment that depends on the same sources of financing.’ Setting up major collaborations takes time, I noticed this researcher. ‘Be patient and flexible and persevere.’
