10 superpowers that help advance science

This year, we asked researchers about their most valuable skill. The answers we received remind us that research is not only about methods and data, but also about mindset, values, and the unique strengths that every scientist brings to solving real-world problems. 

Read below ten of the most compelling “superpowers” they shared, each one reflecting skills and qualities shaping EU science today. 

1. Curiosity 

“I always find passion for the research questions I work on. With passion, it is easier to move any scientific paradigm forward.” - Carolina Doran, the European Citizen Science Association (ECSA), Germany.

 2. Multidisciplinarity 

“Connecting the dots and bridging technical depth with strategic relevance and communicating science to different audiences.” - Martyna Solis, Stockholm Exergi and the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), Sweden.

3. Foresight 

“I can interpret early signals and anticipate events before they unfold.” - Massimo Buonomo, Amigos do Protocolo de Kyoto, Brazil.

4. Dedication

“Passion for knowledge and innovation.” - Martina Dobrincic, Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena, Spain.

5. Innovation Catalyst

“Connecting diverse ideas and innovation for breakthrough.” - Mostafa Moonir Shawrav, Marie Curie Alumni Association (MCAA) and EU Projects SECURE, SECURE2, CAPTAIN, Austria.

6. Digital Trailblazer

“I tackle global challenges with AI, foreseeing vital data and fusing it with powerful algorithms to turn the impossible into reality.” - Mariya Miteva, Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski and EU-supported ‘Sofia University’s Center of Excellence UNITe’, Bulgaria.

7. Strategic mindset

“Analysing complex social dynamics and translating insights into strategies for inclusive and sustainable responses.” - Fatos Vokshi, University for Business and Technology (UBT), Kosovo.

8. Global impact commitment

“Transforming sustainability, mobility and marketing challenges into clear, data-driven strategies with global impact.” - Alberto Tomas Delso Vicente, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Spain.

9. Science communication 

“Translating complex science into clear, engaging stories that connect researchers, industries, and everyday people.” - Katherine Rabik, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.

10. Creativity

“Transforming research with creativity, global vision, resilience and sensitivity to innovate in perinatal mental health.” - Emma Motrico, University of Seville, Spain.

Share your unique scientific superpower 

The future of research is shaped not only by ideas, but also by teams of people with unique expertise and abilities. 

We invite you to reflect about what is the unique strength you bring to your research work and team.  Share it with us on LinkedIn using #ResearchCareers or reply directly to our continuing survey. 

More info  

Research Careers in the EU 

The European Research Competence Framework (ResearchComp) 

The Research Comp Self-Assessment Tool