This page will look much nicer in a browser that supports CSS, or with CSS turned on.

Uncertain Principles

Physics, Politics, Pop Culture

Friday, November 12, 2004

Better Living Through Chemistry

Of course, even if I can't think of structural reforms that can improve the lives of graduate students and post-docs, it's good to know that there are dedicated scienticians out there working on ways to improve their quality of life:

Our theory is that a simple brita water filter can be used to make bad vodka, into good. In our case this meant turning a Vladimir™, into a Ketel One™. At $11.09 for 1.75 liter (Ketel is 11.99 for the 350 ml), Vladimir is a steal. It is, however, painful to drink, has a repugnant aftertaste, posesses a bouquet reminiscent of rubbing alcohol. Our working theory was that these terrible qualities were caused by a lack of proper filtration, and that running our Vlad through a charcoal filter would remove some of the impurities causing these odors and flavors.

So, you know, you may have to work long hours, for lousy wages, but at least you can drink good-tasting vodka...

Posted at 11:35 AM | link | follow-ups |