FEATURE ARTICLE
An American scientist in Tehran
Rudolf Raff
Delays and setbacks are built into the scientific process no matter where it occurs, but researchers in Iran face an additional burden imposed, largely, by politics. Cell biologists lack even the machines that sort cells by surface-protein markers because the necessary US-made equipment cannot be imported. They cannot perform many experiments that we consider routine, but rely on collaborators who have the necessary equipment. Even when equipment has been procured, Iranian researchers face logistics that prevent them from getting on with their experiments.
It seems to me that these restrictions are not in anyone's interest. Scientists themselves exacerbate the situation, fuelled by misinformation that they put themselves at personal risk by travelling to Iran. Of course, people who would not be able to refrain from political discussion or dress as expected would be wise not to go. But the vast majority of scientists would find themselves surrounded, as I was, by courteous, hospitable, well-informed men and women who relish interaction with other scientists. Unfounded apprehensions about the risks of travelling to Iran effectively add a scientific embargo to the political one.
Iranian scientists have no such worries about travelling abroad. At every turn, students—both men and women—asked for my advice in obtaining a position in an American laboratory. Although scientific supervisors in Iran are rightfully concerned about a brain drain, they are also keen to support their students' training. If equipment is lacking for a given project, it may make more sense to send a student, and not just samples, to a laboratory outside the country. My understanding is that Iranian students and postdocs who find positions in foreign laboratories can expect government help in covering their expenses.
European and Australian stem-cell laboratories are open for collaboration and exchange with Iranian scientists, but Iranians have little contact with Americans. A major hurdle is the difficulty in obtaining a US student visa. For this, an Iranian scientist must first go to a third country like Turkey and arrange for an interview with a US consulate. Even after this investment in time, trouble and money, the student cannot be certain whether the visa will be granted. My impression is that many able Iranian students do not, or cannot, even attempt to get permission to study in the United States.
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