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Abstract

The initial excitement of finally leading an independent research group is quickly followed by the realization that it comes with novel challenges. The first day as a principal investigator sets the clock ticking on limited time and opportunities to publish and apply for grants and awards that all are required for tenure or the next job. Expectations are high: PIs must be outstanding scholars who establish their own research program, excel in teaching, and are helpful colleagues and mentors for their students and postdocs. Meeting such high expectations with little experience can cause anxiety and stress. Moreover, we are often our own worst critics; meeting high self‐expectations can be demanding even without external pressure. Based on our experiences as junior faculty, we herewith suggest a set of measures that could help early‐career group leaders to better handle this stress and allow them—and their host institutes—to flourish.