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Academia is often depicted as a calling, but for those who heed it, the joy of doing something they love is often crushed by heavy teaching and admin loads and an unceasing pressure to make a ‘success’ of their research. Here, six scholars reflect on how they make music out of the daily grind

A new term is beginning in the northern hemisphere, and many campuses are reopening. But are academics relishing a return to relative normality or fearful of unvaccinated students? And what has the Covid experience taught them about their approach to teaching? Six scholars offer their perspectives

Virtually all modern university courses end with a request for feedback. But are students’ reactions even useful for improving future course design, never mind assessing lecturers? Seven academics discuss their experiences

Academics’ deep identification with their work means that the failure of a book proposal, grant application or promotion request can cut deeply. But in a competitive profession, such knock-backs are inevitable. Here, six academics recall their most traumatic rejection â€“ and how they got over it

A new teaching year has just begun in the northern hemisphere. Eight academics reflect on their experience of lecturing, and offer their tips on opening students’ eyes – and keeping them open

John Tregoning has a plan to help TEF metrics support performance, scientific excellence and personal development

We all need good advice – the problem is making sure you know where to find it, and how to accept it, says John Tregoning

When life gives you lemons, then make some lemonade says John Tregoning. Or something like that...

Selling yourself can sometimes be quite difficult for academics, but as John Tregoning argues, scientific salesmanship could be vital for career progression