How Important is Recognition in a Career of Research?

Science is not a career that most people go into for money.  The pursuit of discovery, the intellectual challenge, the opportunity to contribute to society – these are often-cited reasons for following the research path.  In fact, sometimes more valuable than money is the praise and recognition we receive from our colleagues.  But how strong, exactly, are our principles?…

Like the age-old question, “If a tree falls in the woods and no one’s around, does it make a sound” – we can ask the question “If a scientist  does remarkable work, but nobody pays any attention, does it matter?”  To many the answer will always be “yes – discoveries are what drives the scientist.”  However, it’s hard not to wonder if some of the passion and drive are not fueled by the images of praise and recognition that will shower the researcher upon unveiling their next breakthrough.

What if you knew going into the career that one of two fates awaited you: the highest level of recognition or no recognition at all?  The only catch is that the recognition may not be as clean cut as you think…

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