Most of us would agree that the pursuit of excellence in data visualization research is not a nine-to-five job. In fact, between a range of possible responsibilities including teaching, writing research papers, writing grant proposals, and developing software, there is no limit to the amount of work that can be done in the name of progress. As the famous Frits H. Post formerly of Delft University of Technology would say, “The only limit is death.”

A corollary to this is that it it can be very difficult to balance personal and professional life as a visualization researcher. Left to the devices of the workplace, life in data visualization may become unbalanced. Successful balance is key to a healthy lifestyle.

This panel discusses central topics related to obtaining a healthy balance of personal and professional life as a visualization scientist. From PhD candidates, to Postdocs, to Assistant Professors, and beyond, we have all experienced the pressure to keep up with our profession.