Imre Friedmann

Expertise: Biology
Expedition Role: Project Biology Lead
Affiliation: NASA Ames/Florida State University

Who I am and What I Do

I am a biologist and have been one for the last 65 years or so, as I am approaching 81. Last year I retired from teaching, but continue to do research.

Career Journey

I was born in Hungary, went through World War II, holocaust, labor camp, lived under both Nazi and Communist regimes, in 1949 escaped to the West. Finished my studies in Vienna, Austria, was professor at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, at Queen's University in Ontario, and for the last 36 years at Florida State U.

My research field is microbial ecology of extreme environments. Spent 17 seasons in Antarctica, traveled and worked in many deserts of the Earth.

How did you get to where you are?

Through persistence: I never gave up in face of difficulties.

Growing up

In Hungary, I lived under anti-Jewish laws which prevented me from entering the University. I learned most of my undergraduate material from books, making chemical experiments in the kitchen of my mother and working at home with a microscope.

What made you study science?

Since I was 10, I knew that I want to be a biologist.

Where did you grow up?

In Budapest, an intellectually vibrant city

Family

Most of my family perished in the Holocaust. My wife, co-worker and dear companion , Roseli (also a member of the expedition) is a Filipina. We have three children, none a scientist.

Hobbies and interests

Photography, collecting old books, collecting folk art (masks), listening to classical music (chiefly opera), art, reading (literature, history), gourmet food, and good wines.

Advice

Three things, in this order:
Know your goal.
Know your strengths and limitations.
Never give up.

Parting words for Students

Chose your profession according to what you are the best at, and what you like to do most.

Parting words for Teachers

As the old Romans already knew: "Quem dii oderunt, paedagogum fecerunt" (If the gods hate somebody, they make him a teacher).The most thankless job on Earth. But if you like it (as I did), you better do it.