Scientist Kristian Bandeira. Photo Credit: Jose Alexzander.

Kristian Bandeira chatted about being an earth scientist in the digital age, and he shared some of the technological tools that he uses in his research.

German philosopher Immanuel Kant of the Age of Enlightenment once said: “Science is organized knowledge. Wisdom is organized life.” This quote still holds true today nearly two centuries later.

Daily motivations

On his daily motivations, he said, “What inspires me as a scientist each day is knowing that I’m contributing to something bigger than myself, even if it’s just in a small way.”

Regarding his love and affinity for science, he shared, “I’ve always had a fascination with science, even from a young age. When I first applied to college, I wanted to study Planetary Geology and Astronomy with the goal of one day working for NASA.”

“Over time, my goals and academic interests slightly changed and I ultimately chose a broader Earth science program to get a degree in that encompasses many different earth related sciences,” he said.

Bandeira on the evolution of science

Bandeira is drawn to science due to its consistent evolution. “What I love most about science is that it’s constantly evolving,” he noted.

“What we understand to be true today might be revised or even overturned tomorrow as new evidence emerges. That openness to change and discovery is what makes science exciting and endlessly interesting to me,” he explained.

Future plans

On his future plans, Bandeira revealed, “I plan to travel to Patagonia in Argentina later this year to conduct in-depth research on the region’s rapidly receding glaciers.”

The digital age

On being an earth scientist in today’s digital age, he said, “It is very extraordinary. Rapid advancements in technology are allowing us to make discoveries faster and on a much larger scale than before.”

“Also, social media and streaming platforms give us the chance to share our findings, engage with the public, and collaborate with fellow scientists worldwide in real time,” he elaborated.

“With the vast amount of information and technology available, however, there is also a growing challenge with the spread of misinformation and false claims, he noted.

“This makes it crucial for us scientists to communicate clearly and responsibly, helping people distinguish credible science from misleading or inaccurate information,” he explained.

Utilizing technology in his daily routine

Regarding his use of technology in his daily routine, he shared, “I use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software regularly in my research.”

“Tools like Google Earth, Google Maps, and other cartography and GIS programs have made mapping, analyzing, and studying the Earth much easier and more efficient,” he elaborated.

“They allow me to visualize data, track changes over time, and better understand spatial relationships in the environment,” he added.

Advice for young and aspiring scientists

For young and emerging scientists, Bandeira suggested, “Young and emerging scientists are growing up in a new digital era, where their research will play a crucial role in helping us better understand the world just a little bit more.”

“My advice is to keep pushing the limits of what’s possible,” he noted. “They have so many tools at their fingertips, and they should take advantage of them!”

“Also, remember, even a small contribution can end up making a big impact,” he concluded.