I have a lot of respect for scientist especially the ones that spend their lives figuring out stuff that makes this world a better place. I had a experience several years ago were we I was working on a piece of electronics gear and myself and a co-worker had banged our heads against the wall for about 2 days. Just so happened that we knew a electronic engineer that had a IQ off the charts who happened to be visiting. I was able to entice him to stop by and take a look. He spent quite literally 2 minutes diagnosing the issues and told us to try something which we did and the issue was solved.
Talking about being impressed he is one of those types of guys that when he is talking you better be listening carefully because you will walk away with a wealth of information. I think you will enjoy the linked article, it is not so much technical but it is a good read. [www.guardian.co.uk]