Orthopaedic research in the 21st century: The new renaissance scientist

Abstract

Orthopedic research in the 21st century will require a new breed of scientist — the new Renaissance Scientist. Medical researchers in the new century — now less than five years away — will have to be specialists, yet will need a broad background to understand and appreciate the contributions of scientists from many disciplines; will need to be aware of scientific breakthroughs and accomplishments around the globe and even beyond planetary limits, regardless of the place or language of publication; and will have to be able to communicate their own findings rapidly, effectively, and efficiently to a truly transnational research community. To achieve this, these 21st-century orthopedic researchers will need new approaches to communication, collaboration, and funding.