When organizing career events for PhD students and postdocs, we realize that most young researchers envision an academic career. They are shocked when we confront them that only 3-5% of them will actually end up as academic staff.
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.
Are you confused about the roles of corresponding and senior authors? The difference between a corresponding author and a senior author is subtle yet crucial in understanding authorship types and hierarchies within academic publishing. The corresponding author is typically responsible for managing the manuscript submission process, while the senior author often holds an overarching responsibility for the entire research project.
Effective communication is one of the most valuable skills in both personal and professional life. In this article, I explore the best books on communication. These books cover the most important communication skills, including mastering body language, improving your listening skills, negotiating difficult conversations, understanding cross-cultural nuances, team building, and enhancing leadership communication.
After you have wrapped up your first year at university, you might ponder, “Can I transfer to a different university after my first year?” Whether it’s due to personal reasons, a change in academic interests, or just a craving for a new environment, transferring universities is a path tread by many. But how does this process work? What are the differences in different countries?
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.
Young scientists often struggle with the problem of being obliged to include authors in the author list who may not have contributed substantially – or not all. In particular, partners who only provide technology, patient samples, genetically modified organisms, or general infrastructure may be a reason for debate, although the research would be impossible without their contribution. How can you handle this problem?
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.
Many PhD students and most postdocs want to pursue a career in academia. However, is it a good idea to admit that you want to become a professor? Would you appear overambitious or pretentious? Or does it ruin your career to hide your ambitions from potential mentors and decision-makers? What should you do?
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.