What It Really Takes to Succeed in Science

Grit Over Genius: What It Really Takes to Succeed in Science

When people ask what it takes to succeed in the life sciences, especially in academia, talent is usually the first thing that comes to mind. But over the years, I’ve come to realize that talent is probably the least important factor. What really matters—what truly carries you through—is hard work, perseverance, resilience, and the ability to keep going, even when things don’t go as planned.

It’s Not About Being the Smartest in the Room

You don’t need to be the most naturally gifted person to succeed in research. Talent can help, sure—but even without it, you can thrive if you’re willing to put in the work. I’ve always believed that hard work can catch up with and even surpass talent. A talented person might need 10 experiments to get results; someone else might need 100. But in the end, it’s the person who doesn’t give up who will succeed.

The truth is, if you're willing to read, to think, to try and try again, you can become just as competent as someone who started out ahead. What matters is consistency and the refusal to quit. Stress will come. Things will go wrong. But you must believe that every rough patch is temporary. If today is hard, tomorrow can be better. And if things haven’t worked out yet, it’s not the end.

The Power of Attitude

What I’ve seen time and again is that attitude makes all the difference. I’ve known people who were average students, who weren’t at the top of the class, but who are now thriving in science. Why? Because they stuck with it. And I’ve also seen top scorers who left the field because they felt they weren’t good enough or got discouraged.

So, don’t quit just because others think you’re not cut out for it. Quit only if you truly feel this path isn’t for you—not because of fear or doubt. If you love science and feel drawn to it, keep going. Mastery takes time. The people who stay in the field long enough eventually become very good at what they do, simply because they kept showing up.

One Day at a Time

It’s easy to get overwhelmed thinking about the future—whether you'll ever finish, whether it’ll be worth it. But what helps is focusing on just one day at a time. Get through today. Learn something new. Do something meaningful. Let the future take care of itself.

The Personality of a Scientist

When I think about the people I’ve worked with in science, one thing stands out: they’re incredibly patient. They’re not easily rattled. Even when experiments fail or progress is slow, they carry a quiet belief that things will eventually work out. That kind of hopeful persistence seems to be a common thread in academia.

Over time, researchers also develop strong problem-solving and analytical skills. These traits may not be obvious at the start, but they evolve as you navigate challenges, troubleshoot failed experiments, and interpret data. Patience, positivity, and adaptability become second nature.

Toxicity in Academia: A Real Concern

That said, academia isn’t always sunshine and discovery. Toxic work environments do exist, often driven by poor leadership. I’ve heard stories of labs where students are shamed, overworked, or disrespected. It’s sad but true that a toxic advisor can create a trickle-down culture of negativity and fear.

Personally, I’ve been lucky to work in positive, supportive groups in Europe—both in Salzburg and Finland. But I know not everyone has that experience. It reinforces how important it is to choose your lab and mentor wisely. A humble and kind advisor, even without a list of elite publications, is far better than one who’s successful but demeaning. Your mental peace matters just as much as your research.

Are You an Expert Yet?

After three years of doing a PhD, I often get asked if I consider myself an expert. The honest answer? No. Not at all. When I was in school, I used to think a PhD meant you knew everything in your field. But the more I read, the more I realize how much I don’t know.

Science is constantly evolving. New findings emerge every day. If you don’t keep up, you fall behind quickly. I supervise students now, and sometimes I learn from them. So, no—I wouldn’t call myself an expert. Maybe I’m getting better with time. That’s the most accurate way to describe it.

Final Thoughts

If you’re thinking about a career in science, remember this: success doesn’t depend on brilliance. It depends on your willingness to keep going. Your ability to stay curious, to work through setbacks, and to believe in your path even when it feels unclear—that’s what will carry you forward.

Don’t quit because you think you’re not enough. You are. And with time, perseverance, and the right mindset, you’ll grow into the scientist you’re meant to become.