Professor Archives

Should I become a long-term postdoc?

ByProf. Sven Hendrix Find your dream job, Passion and pain, postdoc, Professor, Research Career

Becoming a long-term postdoc – isn’t this attractive? When discussing career paths in life sciences with postdocs, we hear on a regular basis the wish to escape from the “rat race of the professors” by accepting a kind of long-term senior postdoc position in academia. The idea is to obtain a permanent position (and thus a safe job in economic turbulent times), which encompasses at the same time an intellectually stimulating and creative profession with some (but not too many) responsibilities. Is this what you want?

20 Strengths and Weaknesses of Leaders in Science

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Leadership skills, postdoc, Professor, Scientific independence

What are the essential strengths and weaknesses of leaders in science? Strong scientific leadership is vital in driving scientific progress and innovation. The scientific community needs leaders who inspire others, make ethical decisions, and effectively communicate their findings to experts and the public.

Which bibliometric data are relevant for a scientific career - title

Which bibliometric data are relevant for a research career?

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Grants, PhD, postdoc, Professor, Publications, Social media

For any scientist pursuing a career in academia, bibliographic metrics such as impact factors or citations are essential for measuring the impact and relevance of their research. But which bibliographic metrics are relevant, and which are misleading?

Nine reasons for NOT going abroad – and how to handle them!

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Mobility, PhD, postdoc, Professor, Work/life balance

There are many good reasons to go abroad. However, there are also a couple of unpleasant side effects of mobility that nobody dares to talk about.

How to ask for a letter of recommendation?

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Find your dream job, PhD, postdoc, Professor, Research Career

We all know the problem – you need a letter of recommendation – but you do not know whom to ask and how to ask. In many contexts, letters of recommendation are required, such as applications for scholarships, fellowships, grants, new positions, awards and honors, and professional development programs. In this article, you will find the open secrets of asking the right person to write you a great letter of recommendation – even if you do not know the person yet.

Best books on salary negotiation and getting a raise

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Find your dream job, PhD, postdoc, Professor, Research Career, Work/life balance

Negotiating an excellent salary is crucial because it sets the foundation for your long-term career satisfaction and financial security. A well-negotiated salary boosts your morale, leading to greater motivation and productivity and reflecting your organizational value. However, effective salary negotiation requires preparation and strategy. The following negotiation books might help you negotiate a higher salary or better conditions.

Why Salary Matters in Science Careers

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Beyond academia, Find your dream job, Passion and pain, PhD, postdoc, Professor, Research Career

Scientists often shy away from discussing money and salary, considering it a taboo topic that distracts from pursuing knowledge and discovery. However, the reality is that salary plays a substantial role in job satisfaction and overall career success for scientists in academia and industry. What should you do?

What is tenure?

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix PhD, postdoc, Professor, Research Career, Scientific independence

Academic tenure is fundamental to higher education, offering professors permanent employment and job security to protect academic freedom. This status allows professors to explore, teach, and publish without fear of repercussions and promotes an environment for innovative and potentially controversial research. Achieving tenure involves a rigorous review of teaching, research, and service contributions.

How to create a leadership action plan as a scientist

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Leadership skills, Books, PhD, postdoc, Professor

Scientists are often excellent in their fields of expertise, but they may lack the leadership skills necessary to lead teams and manage projects. A leadership action plan is an efficient method to develop the necessary skills to become a group leader and pursue a successful career in science.

Best books on metaphysics for scientists

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Books, PhD, postdoc, Professor

Reading books on metaphysics is essential for scientists because it broadens your understanding of the conceptual foundations underlying your field. Metaphysical inquiry can lead to more profound scientific concepts and theories, challenge unreflected assumptions, and inspire innovative approaches to scientific problems. However, what are the best books on metaphysics for scientists?

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