What critical, learned skill, separate from running experiments, is essential for academic researchers' career survival?
Answer
The ability to write compelling grant proposals
For academic researchers, the ability to secure external funding is directly correlated with career longevity and success, as it provides the necessary resources to maintain a lab, hire staff, and pursue long-term investigations. This requires developing the skill of writing compelling grant proposals, which involves demonstrating not just a sound scientific idea, but also presenting a feasible execution plan, assembling a capable team, and articulating a clear budget. This ability is often a distinct skill set separate from the technical competence required to run experiments, requiring active mentorship and participation in the financial aspects of science.
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