At long last the HHMI pulls out its checkbook and announces that they " find the best original-thinking scientists and give them the resources to follow their instincts in discovering basic biological processes that will lead to better biomedical outcomes. "
Hmm, it seems that the "best, original thinking scientists " must be "Have more than 5 but no more than 15 years of experience since appointment as an assistant professor or equivalent position. ". Wow, that means that EXCLUDES a lot of people. Age apparently is really important- but in a weird way. I mean lets say you got your PhD when you were 24, and then
did a 1 year post doc- and got jobs everywhere and now at the ripe age of 41, you have had
your lab 16 years - HHMI considers you DONE and won't consider investing in you. On the other hand, if you finished your PhD at the age of 30 , did a 4 year post doc and have had your lab 10 years- HHMI will consider investing in you . Gee, something is wrong here.
If HHMI really wanted to fund the best, original thinking scientists, they would make the
requirements simple. A PhD and judge the science of that person. Forget about how long the person has had their lab - wine matures early or late - you never know!
Comments anyone?
