Over the past forty years new technologies in the biological sciences, and in genetics in particular, have revolutionized the domain. While opportunities abound in the domain, the rapid pace of change and innovation also poses unique challenges and tensions for scientists. We studied scientists in three different age groups to see how such changes affect different generations. Our Project on GoodWork in Genetics consisted of the following threads:
- Veteran Geneticists study (1998-2001): We interviewed 56 individuals between the ages of 35 and 80, including: 21 PhD researchers, 14 MD researchers, 14 industry researchers, and 7 clinical searchers.
- Young Geneticists study (1998-99): As part of the Young Professionals Project, we interviewed 21 individuals between the ages of 21-34. In another phase (May 2000–October 2000), we interviewed 12 young scientists between the ages of 15-21.
- Lineages in Genetics (1998-2000): As part of our Transmission of Excellence Project, we interviewed three generations of geneticists.
