Predicting the specific "important work" in the next decade can be challenging, as it depends on various factors such as technological advancements, societal trends, economic shifts, and geopolitical situations. However, some broad areas will likely see significant developments and contributions in the next ten years. 

1. **Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning**: Continued advancements in AI and ML are expected to revolutionise various industries, including healthcare, finance, transportation, and manufacturing. This may involve improving AI algorithms, developing more sophisticated applications, and addressing ethical and societal implications.

2. **Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation**: As the urgency of addressing climate change increases, significant efforts will be directed towards renewable energy technologies, sustainable infrastructure, carbon capture and storage, and resilience planning.

3. **Biotechnology and Healthcare**: Breakthroughs in biotechnology, including genomics, gene editing, and personalised medicine, are likely to transform healthcare, leading to more effective treatments, disease prevention strategies, and advancements in areas such as regenerative medicine.

4. **Renewable Energy and Sustainability**: Investments in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power are expected to grow, along with innovations in energy storage, grid optimisation, and sustainable urban planning.

5. **Digital Transformation**: The ongoing digitalisation of economies and societies will continue, with increased focus on cybersecurity, data privacy, digital infrastructure, and the development of emerging technologies such as 5G, IoT (Internet of Things), and blockchain.

6. **Space Exploration and Colonization**: Advancements in space technology, including reusable rockets, lunar exploration, and plans for Mars colonisation, may pave the way for significant developments in space exploration and the expansion of humanity beyond Earth.

7. **Global Health and Pandemic Preparedness**: The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of global health infrastructure and pandemic preparedness. Vaccine development efforts, healthcare systems strengthening, and international cooperation will likely remain priorities in the coming years.

8. **Education and Skills Development**: As automation and AI reshape the workforce, there will be an increased emphasis on lifelong learning, reskilling, and upskilling programs to prepare individuals for the jobs of the future.

9. **Social Justice and Equity**: Addressing systemic inequalities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and advancing social justice will continue to be important themes, with efforts to reform policies, institutions, and cultural norms.

10. **Ethical AI and Governance**: With AI's growing influence in decision-making processes, there will be a greater focus on ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI systems and developing regulatory frameworks to govern their use responsibly.

These are just some broad areas where significant work is expected to occur in the next decade. Still, the specific breakthroughs and developments will depend on the collective efforts of researchers, innovators, policymakers, and stakeholders across various sectors.

If you have a different opinion, please share it with us.