A farewell address: five principles for advancing science and humanity

As I prepare to step down as co-Editor-in-Chief of Pilot and Feasibility Studies (PAFS)—a role I have had the privilege of sharing with Gillian Lancaster since 2017 and later with Stephen Bremner from 2024 when Gillian stepped down—and assume the title of emeritus Editor-in-Chief, I am drawn to reflect on the evolution of this journal and the vibrant community it has cultivated. PAFS has grown into a cornerstone of pilot and feasibility research, championing innovation and improving standards in trial design and reporting. A defining moment in this journey was the 2017 editorial I co-authored with Gillian, Improving the efficiency of trials using innovative pilot designs: the next phase in the conduct and reporting of pilot and feasibility studies [1]. This piece not only charted a path for advancing research practices but continues to guide and inspire researchers committed to making trials more impactful and efficient.

This is not merely a personal milestone but an opportunity to address the next generation of researchers, trialists, and contributors poised to shape the future of PAFS and, by extension, the global research landscape. At this pivotal juncture, science faces both extraordinary opportunities and profound challenges. It is the responsibility of those who embrace innovation, collaboration, and bold thinking to navigate these complexities. As I considered the words of guidance to leave behind, my thoughts returned to an address I delivered in December 2023 to the graduating class at Stellenbosch University in South Africa. On the occasion of receiving an honorary degree, I shared five principles that have guided my career – principles that I believe remain essential for advancing both science and humanity.

Collaboration: the cornerstone of progress

An African proverb says “If you want to fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together”! The most transformative scientific achievements are not the work of lone individuals, but the product of collaboration. Across history, progress has been written by those who understood the power of collective effort. From decoding the human genome to confronting the COVID-19 pandemic, collaboration has been the driving force behind breakthroughs that have changed the course of history [1,2,3,4].

Collaboration demands humility, respect for diverse perspectives, and a willingness to listen and learn from others. It challenges us to rise above the confines of individual ambition to pursue shared goals. Let this be your guiding principle: no matter the scale of your work, its greatest potential will be realized when it is pursued in partnership with others.

Positivity: the compass through adversity

Research is a pursuit fraught with setbacks, failures, and unforeseen obstacles. Yet, it is within these challenges that growth and discovery occur. One of my mentors, David Sackett, often said, “You can consistently steer yourself toward a triumphant destination” [5]. This insight is as true for life as it is for science.

Positivity is not mere optimism; it is the determination to find possibility in the face of difficulty, to see setbacks not as endpoints but as opportunities for recalibration. As Maya Angelou so eloquently stated, “Courage is the most important of all the virtues because, without courage, you cannot practise any other virtue consistently” [6]. Positivity, underpinned by courage, is the compass that will guide you through the inevitable adversities of a life dedicated to research.

Mastery of soft skills: the enabler of successful collaboration

Technical knowledge is indispensable, but it is only part of what defines a successful researcher. The ability to communicate effectively, manage time wisely, navigate complex relationships, and adapt under pressure is what transforms expertise into impact.

Soft skills are not ancillary—they are essential. They enable you to lead with clarity, foster collaboration, and ensure that your work resonates beyond the confines of the laboratory or the page. As researchers, we must strive not only to expand the boundaries of knowledge but also to ensure that our discoveries can be understood, applied, and valued by those who need them most.

Mentorship: a legacy beyond achievement

Mentorship is the bridge between generations, the thread that weaves continuity into the fabric of science. It is a reciprocal relationship that enriches both mentor and mentee, offering the former the opportunity to shape the future and the latter the guidance to navigate its complexities [7,8,9,10].

Seek mentors who challenge you to think deeply and critically. Be the mentor who inspires others to reach beyond their perceived limitations. Mentorship is not simply an act of guidance – it is an act of stewardship, ensuring that the values and knowledge of today endure in the leaders of tomorrow.

Kindness: the true measure of leadership

The philosophy of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—reminds us of the fundamental interconnectedness of humanity [11]. Science, at its best, serves humanity. It seeks to heal, to solve, to improve lives. But this mission cannot be fulfilled without kindness.

Kindness is not weakness; it is strength. It builds trust, fosters respect, and inspires loyalty. It transforms teams into communities and elevates leadership to its highest form. Maya Angelou captured this truth when she wrote, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel” [6]. Let kindness guide your actions, for it is through kindness that you will leave an indelible mark—not just on your work, but on those who walk alongside you.

A vision for the future

As I pass the torch to the next generation, I do so with immense hope and confidence in what lies ahead. The challenges you will face are unprecedented, but so too are the opportunities. Collaboration, positivity, soft skills, mentorship, and kindness—these principles are not just tools for individual success; they are the foundations of a research community that is ethical, impactful, and enduring.

Knowledge is a privilege, but it is also a responsibility. Use it wisely. Use it to uplift others. Use it to advance humanity.

While my address at Stellenbosch University was originally delivered to a graduating class, its message has since resonated with diverse audiences across disciplines. The universality of these principles lies in their relevance to anyone pursuing a career in clinical research, regardless of setting. For those interested, I have shared these reflections in various forums aimed at different audiences:

• Biostatisticians and clinical epidemiologists: Podcast link

• Neonatologists: Watch here

• Orthopedic surgeons: Watch here

• Nutrition scientists: Podcast link

• General scientists: Watch here

To our PAFS readers and research community, I express my deepest gratitude. It has been my profound privilege to serve as your co-Editor-in-Chief. As I step into this new chapter, I look forward to witnessing the remarkable contributions you will make. The future of science is in your hands, and it has never been brighter. I leave the PAFS journal in the capable hands of Professor Stephen Bremner as the sole Editor-in-Chief as we continue the search for my replacement.