Pros
-Interesting work based on the study of rare and complex diseases; the work can be very gratifying when it benefits a patient or contributes meaningfully to the scientific literature -Collaboration with world renowned scientists -Cutting edge technology -Good choice of benefit plans (Health/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance) -Full access to scientific journals, excellent library resources -Daily scientific presentations open to all staff -Creativity is encouraged (though not necessarily rewarded) -Job security -Generous leave after 15 years (1 day per 2-week pay period)
Cons
-Some post-docs, desperate to publish, take credit for your work -Authorship is political; PHDs and MDs often get honorary authorship, regardless of their contribution (if any), and may be placed within the top three authors even though other authors may have had greater contributions -Career growth is slow, even if your performance evaluations are outstanding and you are a strong self-advocate -Good old boy network; glass ceiling once you reach a certain level -Funds for attending scientific conferences are non-existent, unless you are an MD or PhD -Expensive cafeteria with low quality food -Getting an advanced degree, such as a Masters, may not lead to a promotion, and tuition assistance is stingy ($1000 per year) -Essential employees (all Clinical Center employees except administrative staff) must take annual leave, even when unusually severe inclement weather makes it impossible to travel to work (e.g. blizzard of 2010, 1+ foot of snow, whiteout conditions, public transportation shut down) -Many of the older buildings on the NIH campus are in poor condition (plumbing leaks; crumbling plaster; grimey, dirty, nasty bathroom facilities); housekeeping is slack in Building 10; fruit flies and enormous roaches abound -Must walk a long way from parking to place of work, unless you are an MD