Special Report in 2004

Careers in journalism can be rewarding for scientists who have a way with words. Virginia Gewin reveals what it takes to be a scribe.

The road to your first full-time position can be long and tortuous. But some researchers have found a shortcut to success. Eugene Russo reports.

Are you on course for the career you want? Don't follow the crowd and lose your direction, warns Eugene Russo. Instead, map out your own postdoc path.

Four years has become the magic number for many graduate programmes in the United States and Europe. Eugene Russo explains the logic behind the maths.

Scientists are returning from industry to academia with an eye on efficiency and applied science. Kendall Powell explores the attitude adjustments.

Ever more scientists are joining drug companies' sales departments. Are they happy there? Marika Willerroider investigates.

If you are planning to start your career by joining a biotech start-up, you will need to do some homework. Virginia Gewin assesses the risks involved.

Entrepreneur contests spark innovation and provide a practice run for start-ups. Kendall Powell sizes up the competitions.

Can the intellectual route from China to the United States become a two-way street? Paul Smaglik investigates.

Young scientists studying abroad often hit roadblocks when heading home. Some of these are now being cleared away, says Sally Goodman.

Finding a balance in the daily grind requires creativity and a sense of play. Kendall Powell explores how lifestyle can complement science.