[bluenote]

How do you find out the reputation of a Prof whose group you are thinking about joining?  In organic synthesis, besides the obvious ie sharpless, corey, danishevski (sp) etc., how can you ascertain the reputation of a PI.  I only ask because everyone keeps telling me the name of my research advisor will be the only way to get a job.

[Mitch]

Ask your undergraduate adviser and stick your nose in the literature.

[mir]

Why not try ISI Web, and search for your advisors name. Then look up the number of articles that refer to his/her work. A good indicator of an important job.

I only ask because everyone keeps telling me the name of my research advisor will be the only way to get a job.

Thats rubbish! I mean that who you are is much more important, especially if you are going to work in teams. A company will always try to integrate your knowledge and twist it into towards their targets - and to get you there, where your needed - what you did before is of less importance. Who you are is alpha or omega to get the job. A little humor, and a positive attitude to the work will take you very far. In the situation of a huge mass of applications, the employeer is always looking for people with a that extra glimt in the eye that will bring an extra push for the team.