Sometimes it’s not what’s on our CVs or our academic qualifications that gives us the ‘X Factor’ which propels us to success. Often it can simply be the ability to embrace the opportunities and say yes – whilst possessing the courage to step outside our comfort zones.
Tyndall’s goal is to attract and nurture people with diverse talents and excellent skills, enabling all to reach their full potential.
Today we are revealing the hidden talents of Dr Shree Krishnamoorthy, a Post-Doc Researcher in the Biophotonics Group and comedian and writer who is passionate about life, light and most importantly laughter.
Post-Doc Researcher,
Biophotonics Group, IPIC
Tyndall.
What is your hidden talent?
I indulge in humour, mostly sarcasm and express myself best on stage through stand-up comedy. However, in the absence of a live audience during the pandemic I have pivoted and turned my focus back to writing – my original passion!
What sparked your interest?
A tedious PhD experience has made a stand-up comedian of me. Writing only non-fiction in my research has given my imagination wings. I express this imagination, through fiction writing. I am lucky to be in Cork - the city of writers. I have been writing short stories, especially those that focus on Irish life - for different contests. I am currently working on a sci-fi humorous novel.
What is your current role in Tyndall?
I am a researcher in the Biophotonics Group, in IPIC the SFI Research Centre for Photonics at Tyndall. Being a woman from India in research sparks most of my stand-up material. For my writing, working in the field of Biophotonics provides me with the unique opportunity to experience science that fuels me with the different flavours of physics, biology and chemistry. I love life and nature is just bizarre! Nature’s bizarreness is the inspiration for the novel I am working on.
How has your hidden talent complemented your role and/or enhanced your research?
Writing and comedy made my PhD palatable. They helped me make sense of the wonkiness of research life! Writing about people and animals has helped me be compassionate and have a fresh perspective. I discovered the stand-up comedian in me through Brightclub, funded by SFI. I did my first stand-up gig in the first month of my life in Ireland. I felt at home instantly! I have been writing with many talented writers in Douglas writing club. Through writing non-fiction, it has helped improve my writing skills which is essential for academia and my PhD. Check out my most recent article about my research featured by Good Day Cork.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to try your hidden talent?
Say “Yes!” That one word sums up all the wisdom I can ever offer. Any opportunity that comes up, say yes and give it a go. The fear will become thrill and excitement. Then you will surely find your hidden talent!