Public Library of Science (PLoS) Computational Biology recently posted an editorial titled “Ten Simple Rules for Aspiring Scientists in a Low-Income Country”. (hat tip Africa Unchained).

Being a scientist entails a common set of characteristics. Admiring nature and having concern for social issues; possessing a strong academic background, team work abilities, honesty, discipline, skepticism, communication skills, competitiveness, ability to accept and give criticism, and productive relationships are some of the most obvious traits that scientists should have. To be a scientist in a low-income country (LIC), however, requires a complementary set of qualities that are necessary to confront the drawbacks that work against the development of science. The failure of many young researchers to mature as professional scientists upon their return to their country from advanced training elsewhere, motivated us to propose these ten rules.

These rules will not only assist budding scientists, but also help us non-scientists understand both the challenges and opportunities faced by those hoping to make their scientific mark in a Low-Income Country.

On May 11, the NextEinstein campaign officially launched at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences, in Cape Town, South Africa. Stephen Hawking, Nobel Laureate George Smoot, Nobel Laureate David Russell, and Michael Griffin, the Administrator of NASA, were all there to give talks and lend their support.

The unlocking and nurturing of scientific talent began with an event focused on the voices of students and alumni of AIMS (with the music of Vusi Mahlasala, poetry of Lebo Mashile, and talks by George Smoot and David Russell). The presentations from that evening will be made publicly available over the next months. These are the future Einstein’s of Africa and the world. Watch their amazing stories on NextEinstein.org.

Einstein as a scientist is a well-known quantity. However as a person he is often overlooked by the general public. But to look behind the genius, one can see clearly the measure of a great man.

Speaking of Faith produced to hours of radio exploring Einstein’s God and Einstein’s Ethics. The former explores “the great physicist’s perspective on ideas such as mystery, eternity, and the mind of God”; the latter “delves into Einstein’s Jewish identity, his passionate engagement around issues of war and race, and modern extensions of his ethical and scientific perspectives.” Beyond the podcasts, the site has excerpt from Einstein’s writings, clips of him speaking, and many more multi-media ways to learn about Einstein. It is a compelling and uplifting exploration of his life.

As we search for the Next Einstein, we will soon find more amazing scientists who will not just be tributes to their profession but also to humanity.