Relationships between scientists and the news media have evolved tremendously over the past 25 years, and scientists should continue to improve communications with both the media and the lay public.

If you run the lab like a seperate island outside the company, you will not be able to demonstrate where the laboratory is adding value to the overall business.

Delegation is not just telling someone what to do. The team members you delegate to must be able to act fully in your absence. This means letting them think and decide for themselves. Fully empower people to act independently.

Each stage of development has its challenges, but the rewards are success and ease in the role of manager.

This year's survey paints a generally happy picture, with the majority of lab managers saying that they are satisfied with their salaries and the work they do.