• Question: i am very intrested in charles darwin and his descovery of evolution. I love animals and i would like to be a veteinary nurse when i am older. i was just wondering if u could explain in greater detail what you do and how u became to do the job u are doing now? thanks vicky xx

    Asked by to Phillip on 13 Jun 2014. This question was also asked by .
    • Photo: Phillip Manning

      Phillip Manning answered on 13 Jun 2014:

      In many ways I am an accidental scientist. I would never have dreamed 25 years ago that I would become a University Professor. I get to research the history of life on Earth, but also explore remote corners of the planet to discover new fossils. When we find such fossils, we analyse them at laboratories, such as the Diamond Lightsource, so we can unpick their prehistoric secrets. Occasionally I pinch myself, to check I am not dreaming…as this is simply the most wonderful job I could ever have wished for. I think the trick to becoming what you ultimately want to be, is a little bit of luck, lots of hard work, but a clear passion for your subject. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ answer when it comes to careers, as we are all so different. My own route looks quite logical when I think of my past career, but when thinking ahead…I have no idea what is around the corner. So, try and follow your heart, but don’t stop using your head!

Comments

  • vickyhuxtable13 commented on :

    I think your job sounds really amazing and u have inspired me to sort of look for more things to do with science and i am quite fond of fossils myself and i love to go to a beach called Llyme regis. It has loads of fossils and i spend hours their searching for them and i have quite a big collection! haha, loads of people think im sad xx