Professor Karine Sargsyan, YSMU Honorary Doctor; ARICE expert; World Health Organization (WHO) expert; Scientific Director of the Cancer Biobank at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, California, USA; Managing Director for International Biobanking and Education at Medizinische Universität Graz, Austria; was invited to the international symposium with the participation of Nobel Laureates.
We present the Professor’s interesting reference and impressions of the global event:
“Last week I received a “reminder” email about invitation I never received. I was happy and trilled. I was requested to join a symposium with 3 The Nobel Prize Laureates that weekend. And, I was asked to join the Advisory Board of a Nobel winning CMF – Center for Molecular Fingerprinting. This is a real honor and responsibility. But I immediately accepted: I will do my best and beyond to make these incredible innovations available for wide public.
I want to share my impression and feelings: not only the incredible knowledge that was accumulated on one spot with Nobel laureates Prof. Ferenc Krausz, Prof. Katalin Karikó and Prof. Gérard Mourou, but also the emotions and lessons I learned. It was a day that felt almost surreal. I met Prof. Mourou in the elevator of the hotel, and after a short “good morning” I asked him “up or down”, and only after that I realized with whom I am in the elevator. Couldn’t say a word. We met again in the car and smiled – both already dressed as “serious scientists” – if we don’t count my colorful shoes (I have a tick and weakness for weird and colorful shoes). I did not know that my designated sit will be in the first row between former and current ministers of science of Hungary, in the same line with the Nobel laureates, and everyone would see my “funny shoes”, but no one even mentioned or looked at. The air buzzed with enthusiasm and anticipation, and everyone was about insights and ideas, not about exterior or packaging. I loved that a lot. My heart forgot the AV blockade (a heart condition I have) and was beating loud and fast as I got involved in a dynamic conversation with three scientists, whose names are synonyms to revolutionary breakthroughs for humanity. I felt, as I was one of them (I wish). I was amazed by their human kind, kindness and humility. Despite their massive success, they were genuinely interested in my opinion and ideas. We deliberated everything from the particulars of their scientific work to wider subjects like global health and innovative education. Their passion and openness were contagious, and I got inspired. I was so happy to see and understand that “never give up” attitude (this is my motto) can bring someone through wins and failures to such a success. And that collaborations and valuing your peers are important factors, and that the empathy in scientific endeavors may be the key to great discoveries. I am thankful for this encounter that motivated me in a very important moment. Their dedication, compassion, and vision in improving human life made me think that I am on the right track, no matter what will come.
Thank you again CMF and all three inspiring role models, you are examples of life lived with purpose, curiosity, kindness, thankfulness and solid commitment to making the world a better place.
I am also thankful for reminder email – I would never be able to forgive myself, if I would miss this great opportunity. Life is beautiful…”