Winning the Games Scientists Play [Paperback]

Carl Sindermann (Author), Carl J. Sindermann (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 27, 2001

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.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"As a guide to social and professional advancement ... the book is ... excellent." -- Nature

About the Author

Carl J. Sindermann is a marine biologist and the author of five trade books on careers in science. Since he received his advanced degrees from Harvard University, he has directed marine research laboratories in New Jersey, Maryland, and Florida and was the editor of the national journal Fishery Bulletin.

Product Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Basic Books; Revised edition (March 27, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0738204250
• ISBN-13: 978-0738204253
• Product Dimensions: 8 x 5 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.9 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #277,859 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

17 of 18 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Pragmatic Book for Scientists, February 11, 2002

By 

Jason Hong (Pittsburgh, PA United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Winning the Games Scientists Play (Paperback)

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.

14 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Common Knowledge....No Practical Advice, February 8, 2002

By A Customer

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Winning the Games Scientists Play (Paperback)

This is a good book for those scientists who are really, truly hiding under a rock, but will not be helpful for most others. The book can be summed up in a few sentences: Be nice to everyone you meet. Do good work. Don't allow yourself to get walked on. Now you can move on to a book with some practical advice like "Tomorrow's Professor."

5 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Play a Scientific Game, November 23, 2002

By 

"kmhc" (Melbourne Australia) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Winning the Games Scientists Play (Paperback)

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.