Naturally Obsessed: The Making of a Scientist 2010
Distributed by PBS
Produced by Richard Rifkind and Carole Rifkind
Directed by Richard Rifkind and Carole Rifkind
DVD, color, 60 min.
College - Adult
Health Sciences, Science, Graduate Education, Research
Date Entered: 12/02/2010
Reviewed by Veronica Maher, Roger Williams University, Bristol, Rhode IslandAn opportune film for any student considering moving on to PHD studies in science or any other field that demands incredible research and dedication. The film follows three grad students in the science program at New York’s esteemed Columbia University Medical Center under lead scientist Dr. Lawrence Shapiro. The research: “to decipher the structure and mechanism of AMPK, a protein that controls the burning and storage of fat.” The film reveals the trials and tribulations of the young scientists pursuing their goal. Are they dedicated enough? Will they find the solution? How about their personal lives? What drives them to be so obsessed? What is the price? The story is real; the characters are real; the pursuit is tedious; but the solution is attainable. This film offers a view of how lab science is done and what it takes to make a scientist. Included in the DVD are some excellent special features including extra segments on the future of scientists, the mentoring process and a discussion guide for a general audience.
Highly Recommended