Think Outside the Bio-Box

By H. Steven Wiley Think Outside the Bio-Box We like to complain, but it’s a great time to be a biologist—as long as you don’t just think about academia. The idea that having a position at a research university is the best job possible is specious. A recent article in the Wall Street Journal listed the best jobs in America, based on their associated work environment, income, hiring outlook, physical demands, and stress factors. Biologist w

H. Steven Wiley

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A recent article in the Wall Street Journal listed the best jobs in America, based on their associated work environment, income, hiring outlook, physical demands, and stress factors. Biologist was ranked as the fourth best job, right behind computer systems analyst and software engineer. The main reasons for the high ranking for biologists? Mostly low job stress, good income and excellent hiring outlook.

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Of course, after listening to my friends for many years (and reading numerous online comments in The Scientist), I was surprised that being a biologist was considered a low-stress job with a bright future. Grousing about our jobs has always been a favorite pastime for biologists, but I suspect that in our hearts, we know how good we really have it. Even though research funding is tight and faculty positions are scarce, biologists still ...

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