Welcome to Ask a Scientist, where we answer your most pressing science questions! Today, we are joined by Senior Postdoc Dr Hendrik Falk, who works in Discovery Technology at the Cancer Therapeutics CRC.
How do scientists know that something mixed with something becomes a science experiment? – Ava, 9
We often run the experiment in our head at first and speculate if the outcome could be interesting. With the knowledge of others experimenting before us we decide if the outcome could be interesting.
Are bacteria the same thing as a virus? – Harriet, 8
They are very different. A bacteria is an independent living being, consisting of one cell. On the other hand, a virus is not itself alive, it needs to get into other cells to live. There are different viruses that live in a bacteria, a plant or animal cell.
What are the physics in a clock? – Austin, 8
There is an energy source like a battery or a loaded spring, a set of gears that use the energy to drive the hands and a little balance wheel that determines how quickly the gears move. I recommend you get an old alarm clock at the flea market and take it apart!
How do you find out the DNA of a person you don’t know? – Edom, 11
That appears a practical and an ethical question: DNA can be found on almost everything, everywhere that we touch and leave behind – but you really have to ask if you should have a look at the DNA of a person you don’t know, especially if that person hasn’t given consent to their DNA being analysed.
My other question is going with the DNA theme: are there any other ways of identifying DNA instead of Fingerprints, blood and tongue prints? – Edom 11
The police (specifically their forensic experts) will look everywhere for DNA, dandruff in clothes, on a hair, cut off fingernails, on a towel…
Why do pigeons have wings, but they don’t fly? – Kenny, 8
Many pigeons I’ve seen seem to fly, but only if they have to. They might avoid it because it is more effort than walking, making them hungry and needing more food.
Dr Hendrik Falk’s work covers the first steps in creating a new treatment for cancer patients. In drug discovery, scientists identify and refine molecules that modulate a specific function of cancer cells or the rest of the body, for instance to boost the immune system to better fight cancer. This work builds on the innovative findings of other researchers, and it is the exchange with other scientists that he enjoys the most.
Sharing his knowledge with students is a great way to nurture their interest in the world!
Team WEHI Relay for Life 