Note from editor: This is a blog entry from Albert Fahrenbach, our postdoctoral fellow who is the bridge between ELSI and our Harvard satellite group, the Origins of Life Initiative. Before arriving at ELSI (today is his first day, actually)Albert visited PI Piet Hut at our other US satellite, the Institute for Advanced Study, and sent us his report. For those of you at ELSI, do stop by and introduce yourself to Albert (his office is in 401, right across from the administration office.)

Last week I had the opportunity to visit the Institute of Advanced Study (IAS) at Princeton courtesy of Piet Hut's invitation. Although I had heard of the Institute before, I really had no idea what to expect. I stayed at a place called the Marquand House. When I got there, I thought I was arriving at your typical hotel, but boy was I wrong! In fact over the next few days, I began to realize that there is almost nothing typical about the IAS... nothing typical in a good way that is!

I was greeted by Teri Van Schoick, the care-taker of the house. She gave me a tour. The house had many rooms, with a large winding staircase leading to the bedrooms. The old-fashioned décor gave me the impression of a long-history of the many guests that must have stayed there before me. I felt more like I was staying the night in a museum, although the fantastic hospitality of Teri made me feel like I was just at home.

The next day, I led a discussion at lunch about my chemistry research on the origins of life as a new postdoc in the group of Jack Szostak at the request of Piet. I was amazed by the incredible diversity of all those present. Never before have I had the opportunity to engage in such freely flowing and open discussion with so many people of such different and diverse backgrounds. Present at lunch were astronomers, astrophysicists, geologists and even a Hollywood screenwriter. Piet is amazing, and I am astounded by his ability to attract so many different minds to one table. By no means was this a typical experience!

When it was time to leave the IAS a couple of short days later, I couldn't help but reflect on what an inspiring place I had just been. I consider myself extremely lucky for having the opportunity, and I am greatly looking forward to my next visit!
Boston, MA 20 October 2013