Features in 2016

Presenting science to politicians in a way they can understand can have good outcomes.

Nervous about your grant application's chance of success? Get help to make every word count.

Nature announces this year's outstanding science mentors from the US west coast.

Technology and practice can help shy and introverted researchers to succeed when reticence is risky.

The political arena need not be off-limits to scientists.

Pressure to barrel through a PhD can make taking a break seem daunting — but there are ways to limit career damage.

The pressures of a scientific career can take their toll on people's ability to cope.

Choices for doctoral programmes can seem endless, so look for one that matches your interests and personality.

Three advocates explain how their groups are trying to improve junior researchers' experiences.

Offering your skills as a volunteer can be rewarding but needs careful thought.

Having an impressive CV is one thing, but a well-written covering letter can really make you stand out from the crowd.

Want to learn how to design an experiment or analyse data? Training is there if you look.

A feeling that good performance is not adequately rewarded is pervading the research world.

Postdoc positions in industry can teach people skills that they would not learn in academia.

Tedious daily work might feel frustrating, but idle thoughts can drum up just the right spark of scientific inspiration.

Pick up a lump of clay or stare at a Leonardo water drawing — your science, not just your frame of mind, will benefit from it.

Wayward eyes? You can explore a calling outside academia while still in the lab.

Researchers working outside their home country should be careful to brush up on local customs.

Falling in love with a single theory can cut off fruitful avenues of enquiry. Here's how to keep your mind open.

An eye-catching presentation can attract potential collaborators — and even a cash prize.