Winning the Games Scientists Play

By Carl J. Sindermann

Book Overview

In this inspiring book of personal insight and sound advice, veteran scientist Carl J. Sindermann gives an insider's look at the competitive world of science and reveals the best strategies for attaining prominence and success. Taking apart the many different roles scientists must play during their careers, Sindermann compares common mistakes scientists make with what the best strategists do-whether they are publishing papers, presenting data, chairing meetings, or coping with government or academic bureaucracy. In the end, he maintains, well-honed interpersonal skills, a savvy eye on one's competitors, and excellent science are the keys to a satisfying and successful career.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0738204250
• ISBN13: 9780738204253
• Release Date: March 2001
• Publisher: Basic Books
• Length: 304 Pages
• Weight: 0.90 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.0" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

Play a Scientific Game

This book teaches the written and unwritten rules in the scientific games. How to move up, on and out to where you want and not to be a pawn in someone else's game.

Pragmatic Book for Scientists

This book has one key message: every game has its rules, and scientists should understand the rules of their game and play it both professionally and ethically. Though many scientists may disdain such things, the author argues that the scientific enterprise is not divorced from the messy world of people, and that there are many complexities that scientists must master to have successful careers.The author discusses a wide range of topics from a highly pragmatic standpoint, including publishing, presenting, attending meetings and conferences, chairing sessions, understanding problems women in science face, coping with bureacracy, and dealing with lawyers, politicians, and the public. I found these sections enlightening, since these are part of "The Things That You Don't Learn in Grad School But Should Anyway."Although the author occasionally comes off as cynical, his basic message still stands. He has many good insights into how science works, and gives his honest opinion on the elements it takes (beyond a strong research ability) to become a successful and respected scientist.