What are the markers of a successful
scientist? There must be good measures of passion, commitment to
long hours, plus a desire to make a contribution to the field,
and of course some very ample brainpower.
If many of the scientists possess these abilities then why are
some scientists more successful than others?
Studies of successful scientists and researchers suggest that
underpinning scientific achievements are the spirit of
collaboration, communication, and a willingness to look beyond
their own field of study for inspiration and motivation.
Clearly, emotional intelligence plays a vital role in the career
success of scientists.
“The smarter they are, (scientists) - very often less competent
they are emotionally and in handling people. It’s as though
the IQ muscle strengthened itself at the expense of muscles
for personal and social competence-it is called -trained incapacity.”
Stephen Rosen Ph.D.
Career Renewal: Tools for Scientists and
Technical Professionals
“ The examination of the origins of scientific discovery suggests
in this present age, discovery almost always unfolds in a fabric
of communication and collaboration.”
James Glanz, Science Writer- New York Times
New York Times Magazine, October 8, 2000
“Scientists who are attuned to and adept at manipulating
these…. social processes…will experience more career success
than those who are less attuned or are less adept.”
Samuel Cole Ph.D.
Making science: Between nature and society
