by Elizabeth Ohneck, PH.D., for Scizzle Blog

A recent series of articles on NPR called "Science Squeeze" painted a rather abysmal picture of the current state of scientific research, from lack of funding, to job shortages for young scientists, to stories of scientists "giving up," leaving academia for other, though not always better, ventures. The article "Too Few University Jobs for America's Young Scientists" features interviews with a few postdocs at NYU about their current situations and their prospects for an academic future. Their responses are not altogether negative, but are far from resoundingly positive. The article also hints that PhDs may be better off pursuing careers outside of academia, a path that more and more graduate students and postdocs are beginning to take. To get a broader perspective on how the current scientific research climate is affecting the career trajectories of postdocs, I talked with several postdoctoral scientists at varying stages of their careers about their reactions to the NPR series and how the issues presented affect their outlook for the future.

Not all postdocs are ready to jump the proverbial ship when it comes to pursuing an academic career, despite awareness of the hurdles ahead. 

Provides opportunities for scientists and engineers to learn first-hand about policymaking and implementation while contributing their knowledge and analytical skills to policymakers.

Along with the AAAS Science & Technology Policy Fellowships, there are many other opportunities and resources available for those interested in learning about the intersection of science and policy, and applying and communicating scientific and technical information to support well-informed policies, programs, and practices.

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The Origins Project at Arizona State University is pleased to announce the inaugural Origins Postdoctoral Prize Lectureship sponsored by the Epstein VI Foundation.  This prize, the largest of its kind in the world, will be awarded annually to an outstanding junior scholar chosen from all countries, from any field of study relevant to the Origins Project, and will consist of a $10,000 USD prize, coach travel to/from Tempe, Arizona, and accommodations during week-long[1] visit.  Besides participating in the awards ceremony, the winner will give 4 talks[2] on his or her research, as well participate in other Origins Project events during the visit.