Six questions to Stanislav Kopriva

1. Why and when did you decide to become a scientist?

To be honest, I do not think there was ever any real alternative. I always read a lot, was curious and actually liked studying.

2. Which incident from your life as a researcher has remained in your memory the most?

One of my first tasks as postdoc in Bern was to make antibodies against a few enzymes from the sulfate assimilation pathway. When I expressed APS reductase, I got a dark yellow solution. Once I found out that it contains iron-sulfur centre it all clicked, and I had my favourite enzyme for life.

3. If you had the choice, which personality would you like to meet and why?

"I always found people fascinating who were ahead their time or whose creativity was beyond the standard minds."

I always found people fascinating who were ahead their time or whose creativity was beyond the standard minds. So I would love to meet Leonardo da Vinci and Gregor Mendel or Hieronymus Bosch and Salvador Dalí. And of course my music hero, Lou Reed.

4. What do you think characterizes a good scientist?

Curiosity, passion, open mind and creativity as well as perseverance and ability to learn from failures.

5. What advice would you give to young scientists?

"Enjoy doing research, but do not forget that there is so much in life outside of the lab and the office."

Don´t take criticism and failure personally, don´t try to reinvent the wheel, don´t be afraid to ask for help and advice, enjoy doing research, but do not forget that there is so much in life outside of the lab and the office.

6. What's your favorite thing to do after work?

Having a dog means that I enjoy plenty of walks and hikes. Otherwise, I read every day at least for a few minutes, I relax when cooking, enjoy a glass of wine, and recharge my batteries at rock concerts.