Administrative Skills Important for the T-Shaped Professional

The ability to think critically, communicate, and problem solve across scientific and professional networks is an essential trait for any individuals interested in the administration of scientific programs. T-shaped individuals are needed to successfully communicate to others, such as governmental agencies, NGO’s, scientists, and the general public, about projects in a wide-range of disciplines. Managing a large grant program requires baseline knowledge of many disciplines and the ability to communicate regularly with principle investigators in engineering, economics, social science, and natural science. As an example, I currently assist in the administration of 54 projects related to harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie and throughout Ohio. Although a few projects are in my area of expertise, the majority are not. Administration and management of the grants do not require me to be an expert in all disciplines; however, it does require the ability to communicate the objectives and methods of the projects currently being conducted, summarize results, and think critically about next steps in the project or next funding opportunities. As the need for multi-disciplinary approaches to scientific questions increases, the need for more T-shaped individuals will be instrumental for the effective management and dissemination of that knowledge to others.