The Academic Marathon: Managing the Academic Career

When you pride yourself on your research record, it is unnerving indeed to discover that one of the most frequently cited papers you have ever written is a “how-to” piece. Since 1987, when we published the first version of this chapter, we have heard from many students and younger professors telling us how the chapter had helped them organize their careers and/or how comforting it was to know their problems were shared. So, we were pleased to be asked to publish a revised version. In the years since 1987, to our surprise, we have aged. Less surprisingly, it is easier now to expand the focus of this chapter so its readers can include full professors as well as those who are just beginning their academic careers.