We live in an age where
working in science or engineering offers tremendous
professional opportunities - the pace of scientific
development is truly breathtaking. Yet many researchers
struggle with the pressures of the fast-paced academic
workplace, and struggle to harmonize their work and
personal lives. The result can be burnout, exhaustion, and
stress on a personal level, and difficulty in recruiting
and retaining talented, diverse people to science and
engineering. This book, written for graduate students and
researchers at all stages of their careers, aims to help
scientists by identifying and questioning the core beliefs
that drive a culture of overwork, and provides real-world
examples and exercises for those wishing to do things
differently. Written in a lively narrative style, and
including interview excerpts from practicing scientists,
social scientists, and engineers, this book serves as a
guide for those seeking to practice the seven traits of
the joyful scientist.
Makes the reader aware of the
personal and collective beliefs about what it means to
be a successful scientist.
Offers practical suggestions and
ideas for leading a balanced life while thriving in a
scientific career.
Offers anecdotes from scientists
that illustrate and deepen the material covered.
Exercises invite the reader to
reflect and explore alternative approaches to living the
life of a scientist
We
see many cases of colleagues who courageously take
scientific and professional risks.
(One of the book's illustrations that are made by Janwillem Snieder.)