Daydream of a scientist

Tayyibah Tahier

Working in the lab on a hot summer morning,
weighing out samples on a mass balance
There will be enormous support
with high hopes for the next experiment
it can be added in the next report
In a brief moment I begin to daydream,

Floating in my mind,
planning, meetings, stuff
I wonder,
am I good enough?

The journey has been long
Days, months and years
Not a lonely journey at all
so many joys and success
and also nights filled with fear

In my thoughts I know that this is what I love
Molecules, mixing and thinking
Chemistry is great and evokes curiosity about how things work
a scientific lens for the world around us
so diverse and fascinating
Research on cures and clean energy
leading to a better world for humankind  

Suddenly,
back at the lab, in front of the balance
The daydream fades
as I stare at the uncertainty of the last two digits

The Science

‘Daydream of a scientist’ is a poem about imposter syndrome. Many scientists experience imposter syndrome and the poem highlights how insecurities or low confidence can sneak up on you even when things are going well. The poem is meant to resonate with scientists who often experience feelings of uncertainty or doubt their abilities as scientists.

The Poet

Tayyibah Tahier is a PhD candidate from South Africa. She enjoys the link between science and art, which is often viewed as unrelated fields. Tayyibah has an interest science communication and is always looking for creative ways to share her passion for science.

Next poem: Displaced by Eveline Pye