I read your editorial on the subject of scientific societies.1 I joined my first society for the same reason you did, to be identified as a scientist (in my case, as a chemist in the American Chemical Society). It wasn't long thereafter that I realized that a practical advantage of being a member was the opportunity to obtain employment. ACS's publication, Chemical & Engineering News, carries ads from companies seeking new hires and also allows members to advertise their availability. I obtained my first professional job replying to one of these ads, and some years later, was hired after my personal ad led to an interview. Another society's publication was subsequently useful for the latter purpose. Now, as an independent chemical consultant, I use society publications as an advertising tool where appropriate. Of course, networking while associating with fellow scientists can also be beneficial in seeking employment.
While I won't ...
