Independence?

[teetotaler14]

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I've seen the terms "independent scientist" and "independent research career" used a number of times in reference to physician scientists. What exactly does "independence" mean in this context - is it some sort of career or funding milestone?

 

[gutonc]

I've seen the terms "independent scientist" and "independent research career" used a number of times in reference to physician scientists. What exactly does "independence" mean in this context - is it some sort of career or funding milestone?

It means you have your own lab and your own funding. It used to be the norm. It is now a rainbow farting unicorn.

 

[teetotaler14]

Does "your own funding" mean funding from within your institution, or funding from an external entity like the NIH? Also, why/how has "independence" become so much harder to get?

 

[gutonc]

Does "your own funding" mean funding from within your institution, or funding from an external entity like the NIH? Also, why/how has "independence" become so much harder to get?

Independent funding. NIH, NSF, foundation, whatever. It doesn't include your startup package.

Have you seen NIH paylines lately? 20% overall R01 funding rate? That's why.

 

[Neuronix]

Have you seen NIH paylines lately? 20% overall R01 funding rate? That's why.

15% :-/