the problem, as i see it
I have come to realize that I may not be working on the correct problem. I chose protein structure prediction for a number of reasons.
1. It is a hard problem
2. It is both computers and biology
3. My work could lead to less suffering for my fellow humans.
Neither 1 nor 2 has changed, but my perception of 3 is wearing on me. First of all, my work may not help people because it may fail, or be used for the wrong purposes. This does not bother me too much. Secondly, the work may not help those who truly need the help. I need to find a way to use my skills in computers to bring clean water to Africa if I really want to ease some suffering. If anyone knows what I need to do to accomplish this, let me know.