From Bern to Freiburg A Serendipitous Encounter Blending Science and Spirit on the Journey - a PI's tale

Traveling from Bern to Freiburg for the TERMISEU2025 tissue engineering conference offered more than just a venue for scientific exchange. It became a journey rich with personal stories, unexpected encounters, and moments that intertwined the realms of science and spirituality. Little did I know that this trip would lead to a meaningful connection with a stranger whose experiences would deeply resonate with my own.

After settling into a seat onboard the SBB from Bern to Freiburg to edit a manuscript, an older man seated across from me. Initially reserved, I was surprised when he struck up a conversation. He asked if I was in Switzerland for work or study. I shared that I was meeting friends in Eastern Switzerland while heading to Freiburg to a meeting that discusses advancements in tissue engineering.

Not sure why, I further revealed I lived for sometime, in Western Switerland, Morges, working at EPFL. His eyes sparkled at the mention of Lausanne-his hometown. Now residing in a monastery (a Rabten Choeling) atop Vevey, he shared snippets of his eclectic life shaped by diverse interests, including astronomy, art, and architecture nurtured during his time at EPFL. We quickly found common ground, connecting over our individual journeys.

His life in the monastery brimmed with stories of compassion. He talked about the hedgehogs, cats, and even foxes he had rescued, how he has returned them to the wild, how he has a picnic with them once a week. He kept going, highlighting how he used his past training to give back to his community. These tales revealed a profound spiritual bond with the world around him.

When I explained the basics of tissue engineering—growing tissues to advance healthcare—his curiosity deepened. He began delving into topics like star maps and zodiac signs and cell salts. When I shared that I was a Virgo, he confidently remarked how the characteristics of Switzerland often align with Virgo traits, emphasizing practicality, detail-oriented solvers, and a love for nature.

Our conversation took an intriguing turn toward space and microgravity, discussing the LIBRA lab's incredible findings in these fields. He expressed keen interest in the conference, and I shared insights about the nature of scientific gatherings, who typically attends, and the anticipated outcomes. This dialogue contextually enriched our fortuitous meeting.

I was amazed as he recounted founding an imaging method decades years ago for capturing infrared images of stars, using home made vaccum to develop his images that were exposed for durations of up to an hour. At the time, only a Russian observatory validated his findings, highlighting a significant disconnect with mainstream science. What intrigued me more was his renewed excitement about his work. After being in astronomy on and off for decades, he noted a rare alignment of the lunar poles, offering a fresh chance to observe the stars-now in collaboration with Indian observatory, indicating that opportunities come to those who persist.

Equally striking was his commitment to authenticity in science. He revealed that he had never used PowerPoint or digital tools, opting instead for hand-drawn illustrations and notes. In an era dominated by technology, it was refreshing to witness such dedication to simplicity and personal touch.

As he reminisced, I noticed tears welling up in his eyes. His memories of significant contributions to science had evoked nostalgia but also a deep sense of loss. The passion he exhibited for his craft was palpable, an affirmation of a unique life lived beyond conventional academic boundaries. To my lab, we have a chance to really leave legacy to generations to come.

In that fleeting moment, amid our busy lives, we felt the power of genuine human connection. Here were two individuals from starkly different backgrounds united in a shared dialogue about science and spirit. It’s tremendously enriching to find oneself navigating conversations that blend emotional depth with intellectual pursuit. The one hour journey to Basel for the change of train, did not feel like an hour. I learnt more, that what I would have learned being myopic in my own chosen field of science.

Reflecting back on my journey from Bern to Freiburg, the encounter with this extraordinary man continues to resonate. It served as a reminder that while professional achievements matter, they often pale in comparison to the richer narratives woven through shared experiences.

Conferences like TERMISEU2025 aren’t solely for showcasing advancements in science. They present profound opportunities for personal growth and unexpected friendships. Often, life’s most significant revelations arise from unanticipated encounters.

As I contemplate my dialogue with the older man, I recognize the importance of merging scientific knowledge with emotional and spiritual perspectives. True wisdom resides not just in data but in the connections we foster and the stories we allow into our lives. As we venture deeper into understanding complex subjects, let’s remember to cherish these tryst moments that connect our diverse paths.

The journey to Freiburg equipped me not just new scientific (or hollistic) insights but also a richer understanding and appreciationi of the human experience. Our lives are intricate mosaics of interactions that shape both our personal and professional journeys. The next time you find yourself traveling, take a moment to pause and engage with those around you. You may uncover incredible stories and insights that life has waiting for you. Good bye Jean-Marc probably will not make it to Reban Choeling, but will never say never, but now I really want to use these Salts and test them on our immune models.

Embrace your journeys as opportunities to deepen your understanding of the world, revealing the beauty of human connection and the serendipity of existence.