Generalist with a PhD longer than you can pronounce?!

Listen now:
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Shern Tee is a lecturer, researcher, physicist and coder who specializes in all molecular dynamics simulations weird and unusual. Currently, he teaches and conducts research while advocating for cross-disciplinary thinking in traditionally specialized academic environments. His focus in on developing new theoretical methods in constant potential molecular dynamics and non-equilibrium molecular dynamics, together with implementations in LAMMPS using C++ (try saying that 10 times in a row! 😉 )

What you'll learn:

1. How "irrational optimism" about student potential can transform teaching approaches and outcomes

2. Why generalist thinking is valuable in specialized academic environments and research settings

3. Strategies for increasing student engagement through curiosity-driven teaching methods

4. How exploring opposite perspectives can lead to breakthrough insights and learning

5. The importance of confidence-based networking versus transactional relationship building

6. Why human connection remains critical even as AI transforms educational landscapes

7. Practical approaches to fostering exploration and discovery in academic settings

8. How to navigate uncertainty in both networking and career development

Some takeaways:

1. Irrational optimism about student learning potential creates a foundation for effective teaching - believing students can achieve more than seems realistic often leads to better educational outcomes and student engagement.

2. Generalists in academia serve as valuable connectors who can bridge ideas across disciplines, helping specialized researchers see new applications and connections for their work.

3. Student engagement increases significantly when teaching focuses on fostering curiosity and exploration rather than just delivering information - students learn better when they're genuinely interested in discovering answers.

4. Examining the opposite of any idea or assumption can reveal new insights and perspectives - this contrarian approach helps both educators and students think more critically and creatively.

5. Effective networking stems from genuine confidence and interest in others rather than transactional approaches - focusing on authentic connection creates more meaningful and lasting professional relationships.

6. Human connection becomes increasingly important as AI handles more routine tasks - the uniquely human elements of empathy, creativity, and relationship building gain value in educational and professional settings.

7. Creating space for exploration and uncertainty in academic environments allows students to develop independent thinking skills and genuine understanding rather than just memorizing information.

8. Not having a clear direction in networking or career development can actually be beneficial - staying open to opportunities and connections often leads to unexpected and valuable paths.

9. The role of AI in education continues to evolve rapidly, but the fundamental human elements of teaching, mentoring, and inspiring students remain irreplaceable and increasingly valuable.

Links:

Where to find Shern

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shern-tee-phd-8172241b3/

Where to find Milly

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milly-tamati/

• Website: http://www.millytamati.com/

Generalist World resources:

• Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0qbGzMUMDCK5v3XbvRANmD?si=b1d7af51c24e43ee

• Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-generalist-world-pod/id1814092399

• The Generalist Quiz: https://www.generalistquiz.com/

• Essays: https://www.generalistcareer.com/

• Upcoming events: https://lu.ma/generalist.events

• Positioning Guidebook: https://www.generalist.world/positioning

🙏 Special thanks to our podcast producer James McKinven! (get in touch for all your podcast needs, he’s really great!)