Scientific community. Soft money's hard realities.

"Second-class citizen" is how researchers on soft money, who have to raise their salaries from grants, describe their position--even those who like their jobs. It can be fraught with financial insecurity, disrespect, and poor facilities--as well as some advantages, such as freedom from administrative duties. Those who have done it say that success requires a strong will, an accommodating department, friends in high places, and money in the bank as a cushion--not to mention emotional security and a tough skin.