'As scientists, we strive to share our collective knowledge and experience'

Lab product reviews can change the world by helping other scientists find the best equipment to accelerate their vital work. Here at SelectScience^®, we are dedicated to promoting peer-to-peer communication that will make the difference - but we couldn't do it without our esteemed reviewers. In this regular feature, we put the spotlight on some of our most dedicated and impactful reviewers and find out what inspires them to keep sharing their knowledge with the global scientific community.

This week’s Reviewer in the Spotlight is John Hendricks, a New Jersey resident, who has been working in industry as a chemist for 7 years. After graduating from USciences, Hendricks started his career in forensic science, testing biological samples at a toxicology laboratory. There, he specialized in blood alcohol analysis and drugs of abuse testing via gas chromatography (GC). Hendricks then made a transition to work for Coim, a global polyurethane and specialty chemical manufacturer. Through quality control (QC), analytical, and now technical service, Hendricks has focused his work on the analysis and characterization of polyurethane polymers.
Here, Hendricks describes what motivates his passion for science, and why laboratory product reviews are an important channel for scientific communication.

How did you become interested in science and how did you end up in your role? Were there any major lessons you learned along the way?

I have been interested in science since an early age and took many science electives in high school. My passion for chemistry, however, was truly realized thanks to a professor in college whose love for chemistry and teaching lead me to changing majors. Starting in forensic science and now in polymers I have learned from my journey, short as it might be so far, that finding true passion for what you do is important in your career, even if it does not take you in the direction you imagined.

What value do you put on science communication and getting visibility for your work?

Communication in science is key, whether it be the publishing and sharing of research works or webinars and events that educate. I find it important that as scientists we strive to share our collective knowledge and experience.

How do SelectScience reviews help you with your work?

The often forgotten part of science communication which SelectScience helps with is the review of products. This is particularly important when making a budgetary choice on a key piece of equipment that may cost a large chunk of the yearly budget for improvements. But even for the small things, reviews help save from costly mistakes of buying less than satisfactory equipment. Often it comes down to specific applications and knowing that someone else has had success with your specific application is extremely helpful. I enjoy sharing my reviews and experience with lab equipment, especially when that means sharing a new favorite lab piece!

What is your favorite piece of lab equipment and why?

My favorite piece of lab equipment is easily the GC with the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) following right behind. I love the vast amount of information you can get from these instruments with minor and sometimes major methodology changes. My favorite part is the excitement of finally getting my peaks to resolve nicely after several attempts.

What is the next step you’re hoping to take in your career?

I look forward to a rewarding career in chemistry and seeing what the future brings.

Would you like to feature in our Reviewer Spotlight? Write your review here to be in with a chance >>