“Good morning,” I begin. “It's great to be here presenting my latest research.” And it is good to be in front of faculty members and students, despite my sickening nerves. This is judgement day for getting a permanent faculty position.

Someone rustles my handout as I unveil my work, 'Invasions in heterogeneous environments'. Maybe handouts weren't such a good idea after all. Can I convey my interest, inspire people? Much as in a student lecture, I scan faces for some feedback. Nothing. So I catapult everyone into my favourite results.

The interview gets altogether more personal. How would I teach ecological theory? With whom would I collaborate? What resources would I require? Now, I've done my homework. I've spent evenings reading the department's website. I know their research, their courses, their 'future strategic plan', the funding opportunities, and even some of their hobbies. It helps me answer their questions, but it also helps me judge the department. I figure that this could be a long-term partnership, so I'd better know the place.

The implications are huge. For one, my partner and I finally could live in the same country if I get the position. I try and keep a grip on my nerves by judging the department while they are judging me. I pose a final question in my head. “Will you take this researcher to be your lecturer?” I now await their answer.