Nature Networks

I think many of us tend to be a little cautious of networking websites. I've only recently succumbed to that infernal blight on the productivity of human civilisation, Spacebook. Or MyFace. Or whatever the kids are calling it these days.

Nevertheless, The Nature Publishing Group started up its own professional networking site, Nature Networks, last year, which is just now starting to gather some steam. First impressions indicate that it might actually be a very useful resource for scientists, both new and established. No sign of any of that ridiculous "Super-Poke", "Throw Pie" nonsense here. It's strictly science, and all the better for it, IMHO.

My optimism for the project increased markedly when the Neuroscience forum recently started a regular Journal Club entry. There was much wailing and gnashing of teeth as to whether this would be a productive or downright disastrous idea, with good arguments on both sides. However, the first entry is up and conversation has so far remained civil. The senior author on the selected paper even turned up to throw his two cents into the discussion.

The whole science networking project is still in its infancy, and I imagine that many will opt to stand by and see how it develops before entering into the breach &c. At best, it will provide a much needed boost to the networking power of young scientists, while providing a forum for serious scientific discussion. At worst, it will be just another way to waste time on the interweb.

Time will tell. Check it out all the same, though.