As scientists around the globe research cures and treatments for diseases, work to increase the data capacities of the information superhighway, and develop methods to clean the environment, they must also take time to contemplate the future of their industry, especially after the economic downturn of 2009.

What leads individuals to pursue a career in freelancing? What do they find most appealing about free-agent work in the scientific industry? In order to better understand the positives of contract scientific employment, Rich Pennock interviewed four former and current freelance scientists.

During the past year, scientists around the country have encountered various challenges, including an unpredictable world economy, thousands of job losses, and pharmaceutical megamergers. There cannot possibly be a pot of gold at the end of this rainbow, can there? Think again.

The results of the 2009 Lab Manager Kelly Scientific Third Annual Salary and Employee Satisfaction Survey are in and, somewhat surprising, a majority of the participants have stated that they are content with their current employment situations.

According to salary survey respondents from four different regions around the country, it seems that a majority of science professionals are very satisfied with their current positions.

To date, we’ve experienced a year of mega-mergers with six of the top pharmaceutical players combining forces to become three major contenders. What does this mean for the affected employees and managers alike? Well, believe it or not, it can lead to employment opportunities and personal successes that otherwise may not have been considered.

Along with building relationships with experienced employees, managers can help new employees feel welcomed before they even begin working with a proper onboarding process.

In spite of society's dependency on the sciences to maintain a high quality of life, science professionals are not immune from the realities of the current economic downturn.

Retention programs are as diverse as the businesses that implement them, but an ideal retention strategy is comprised of three key elements.

In this month's Science Matters column, the Kelly Global Workforce Index survey, by global workforce solutions company Kelly Services, reveals that there is a strong desire for jobs that fulfill vital psychological needs of employees—something that is fueling a global shift in workplace dynamics.

Social networking sites allow recruiters to establish relationships with candidates while promoting their company and leveraging relationships into placements down the road.

Human capital is one of the keys to success in any industry. It is especially important to scientific industries such as pharmaceutical, where knowledge is the name of the game. It continues to be an important focus for pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies seeking to develop strategies to attract, develop and retain top talent.

The work of lab management is changing to keep pace with the demands of the global workplace. By planning ahead and providing true customer service, labs can continue to efficiently operate well into the future.

Staffing firms match scientific talent with global industry needs while satisfying workers' desire for freedom, flexibility, and mobility.