“The disgruntlement is a by-product of how the review system works.”

Image courtesy: Johan Bollen

Says Johan Bollen in his Turning point interview. To receive grant funding, scientists have to act like contractors, and the system is extremely slow. So, Johan took things into his own hands, and he hopes to democratise science funding. His plan is that every scientist receiving a base amount of $100,000, and that they would have to divide this amongst they’re colleagues based on their scientific track record.

What do you think about this system? Do you think it will work as a good alternative to the current funding models? We would love to hear from you – leave a comment below and get the conversation started.

Finding a job in the fracking industry

A fracking site in Williston, North Dakota. The state has suffered a housing shortage as a result of thousands of workers flocking to join the oil boom.{credit}Shannon Stapleton/Reuters/Corbis{/credit}

For a controversial industry, there do seem to be rather a lot of job openings. Geoscience: Fracking fundamentals looks at where the jobs are, and what they entail. The main problem that needs solving: how to get rid of the chemical waste water.

We’d love to hear from you if you work in the industry and have some advice for job seekers!