Grant rejections (a fictitious interview containing some advice). #rejection #PhD #grantrejection

TL;DR

Professor Emerick discusses his experience with a rejected grant proposal and offers advice for handling similar situations.

Transcript

good day my name is matthias r and today we'll be talking about grant rejections in science joining us in the studio today is professor emerick who i believe just had a major grand proposal rejected so hello and welcome okay um right can you tell our viewers how the grand rejection made you feel well immensely sad i put my heart and my soul on this... Read More

Key Insights

• 🔬 Grant rejections are a common experience in science, given the limited funding available.
• ❓ It is crucial to separate oneself from the rejection and understand that it is the proposal being rejected, not the individual.
• ❓ Rejections can provide an opportunity to reevaluate and improve a proposal for future submissions.
• 📞 Sharing rejections and receiving support from others can be beneficial for coping with disappointment.
• 🥺 The grant funding system's limitations and subjective decision-making can lead to excellent proposals being unfunded.
• 👶 It is important to acknowledge and process negative emotions but also to focus on moving forward and seeking new opportunities.
• 👻 Rejection can highlight areas for improvement in a proposal, allowing for a better future submission.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Professor Emerick feel when his grant proposal was rejected?

Professor Emerick felt immensely sad and empty upon receiving the rejection, as he had invested his heart and soul into the proposal.

Q: What advice does Professor Emerick give to people dealing with grant rejections?

Professor Emerick recommends giving oneself time to experience negative emotions but emphasizes the importance of recovering and focusing on more positive thoughts. He also suggests engaging in activities that bring joy, such as going for a walk.

Q: How did sharing his rejection on Twitter help Professor Emerick?

Sharing his rejection on Twitter allowed Professor Emerick to receive support from others in the form of cat pictures, songs, jokes, and other enjoyable content. It reminded him that failures should not be hidden, and it can be comforting to know others have experienced rejection as well.

Q: What does Professor Emerick highlight about the grant funding system?

Professor Emerick points out that the grant funding system has high rejection rates, as only a small percentage of proposals receive funding. He also mentions that decisions can become idiosyncratic, and quality can be subjective, making it difficult to secure funding.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Professor Emerick shares his disappointment and anger upon receiving a rejection for what he believed to be his best grant proposal.

• He advises individuals to allow themselves time to process their feelings but ultimately recommends focusing on more positive thoughts and engaging in enjoyable activities.

• Professor Emerick finds solace in sharing his experience on social media and receiving support from others who empathize with rejection.