We are made of stardust; made of the elements that are forged in stars as they are born, as they live, and as they die. Yet we all have different stories, and Queers in Science celebrated three scientists at the cutting edge of their fields. They shared their research, their personal journeys, and their vulnerability as part of the annual Queers in Science lecture.

This week’s interviews of short-listed applicants have revealed a compelling array of stories from around the world and, in particular, confirmed many of the project proposal’s underlying assumptions. The general level of science training, expertise and acumen was very good and, with science educators in short supply in our country, plainly an opportunity going to waste.