Of course, this situation may not be reflected in all countries around the world, and even if it is, some may not wish to admit it. There are few countries, however, where a struggle for funds to support research is not apparent. Certainly in Britain, this situation affects a scientist's committment to a career in research. It is increasingly difficult to find permanent positions within the research environment and many scientists work on short term grants (usually for a maximum of three years, but sometimes for as little as one year), which offer no job security and none of the bonuses, such as health insurance and contributions to a pension, that are standard for employees in other sectors. Not surprisingly, therefore, many scientists and veterinary graduates, who have contemplated a career in research, are attracted into the commercial biotechnology companies and referral centres outside the schools, where the conditions and pay are better. The result, of course, is a paucity of research trained, high quality scientists and veterinary graduates in academic positions to inspire the next generation.

It is not my purpose to cast a shadow of doom and gloom over the prospects of a career in research. There are many reasons to be optimistic about the future of research in the veterinary and animal sciences environment, particularly with the growing trend worldwide towards greater collaboration between the biomedical science disciplines. In addition, an awareness and open discussion of the factors that make a career in research a less attractive option should eventually help to overcome these problems.

Which brings me back to where I started, with graduate schools. The tendency towards offering graduate students a wider range of compulsary and non-compulsary courses and seminars, will provide them with more choices and greater flexibility in a research environment that has seen, and will continue to see, changes in its structure and opportunities. I embrace wholeheartedly the graduate schools' move towards better preparing their students to survive and thrive in an increasingly competitive world.

Please react to this article!
Are you a graduate student and, if so, where are you studying?
What are your experiences of 'extra' courses (compulsary or otherwise) offered during your research degree?
Have these courses helped you and would you like more?

Are you a supervisor of research students?
Do you feel strongly that research students are helped either too much or too little?
Do you agree or disagree with the very structured research based degrees that are offered by some graduate schools?
Should 'extra' class based courses be kept to a minimum or be increased?

Let us know your views on this subject!

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