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| "Trying to attack your road blocks can be an exhausting task. Instead, think of creative ways you can go over, around, or even under road blocks. In the end, you'll preserve your strength, positive attitude, and all the qualities you need to succeed!" |
Morse Solomon, Ph.D. |
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Career Title: Research Leader Food Technology and Safety Laboratory Agricultural Research Service U.S. Department of Agriculture Beltsville, Maryland
Fields of Expertise:
Academic Studies:
University of Kentucky
University of Florida
Employment History:
Short Order Cook in Fast Food Restaurant
Insurance Salesman
Graduate Research Associate
Research Scientist "If I hadn't become a scientist, I would have become . . . a salesman."
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Q: What led you to your career?
A: I always wanted to be a leader. Dr. Donald Kinsman, my undergraduate professor at the University of Connecticut,
was a true leader, and I wanted to be just like him. He convinced me to pursue a career in meat science and
muscle biology. He was the "Michael Jordan" of this field, and he's the reason I'm doing what I do today. I love
leading a team of scientists, solving science-based problems, and developing cutting edge research programs.
Q: What other subjects besides science are important for this field of study?
A: I report my research and make speeches around the world, so English and public speaking are very important.
Scientists speak to a variety of audiences. For instance, one day, I may be speaking to a room full of
scientists. The next day, I may be speaking to elementary school students. As a scientist, you have to be able to
tailor your talks to different audiences, so they'll be able to understand the message you're trying to convey.
Q: Have you been involved in any new scientific discoveries?
A: Most meat tenderizing methods take days or even weeks to be effective. I, along with a team of scientists,
discovered that underwater detonation explosives can instantaneously tenderize meat. (Who would have thought
that I would ever be working with explosives in my field of study?) In the process, we also discovered that
explosives can kill harmful bacteria in meat. This is an experimental process. It has not become commercial yet.
Q: What advice would you give to students who are interested in pursuing a career in
science?
A: Trying to attack your road blocks can be an exhausting task. Instead, think of creative ways you can go over,
around, or even under road blocks. In the end, you'll preserve your strength, positive attitude, and all the qualities
you need to succeed!
Hypertext updated by dav 2001-FEB-13