Update: A New Direction for Science Newsletter

It has been some time since I last wrote and published on here. That period away has given me the opportunity to reflect on both my academic interests and where I can make the most meaningful contribution.

Following that reflection, I have decided to shift the focus of my essays from neuroscience and oncology to developmental biology and plastic surgery.

This decision stems from where my curiosity has consistently led me. Over time, I have realised that the aspects of oncology that most captivate me are those rooted in developmental biology: tissue patterning, morphogenesis, regeneration, and the dynamic processes governing growth, repair, and disease. In many ways, this echoes the observation of Harold Dvorak that "tumors are wounds that do not heal." Plastic surgery, with its foundation in tissue reconstruction, regeneration, and developmental biology, provides a natural clinical framework through which to explore these ideas.

Although neuroscience remains one of the most fascinating fields in medicine to me, I have come to recognise that I cannot meaningfully pursue every area that interests me simultaneously. I continue to enjoy thinking about the human brain, neuronal dynamics, and behaviour, but producing thoughtful, high-quality work requires focus. For that reason, neuroscience will no longer be a central theme of my writing.

My hope is that this narrower focus will allow me to produce essays with greater depth, clarity, and ultimately, greater value for those who choose to read them.

Kind regards,

Isaac