The training of new scientists

The PhD is the essential training ground for future scientists, followed by a period as a postdoctoral fellow. Key issues in the training of new scientists are the attraction and retention of students at the different educational levels and relevance of the science curriculum for employability beyond academic institutions into the industry and government sectors. The nature of PhD programs is changing due to the exponential growth of knowledge with its corresponding requirement for ever-increasing specialization, but there is a simultaneous demand for breadth. As the final training stage, postdoctoral appointments need to incorporate career planning and structures for entry into permanent employment as an independent scientist.