"So here goes. If you are committed to this path, and want papers, grants, and employment for now and tomorrow, I can sum up in two words what it is that is asked of you, and really, everyone who works in science: Astonish us. That's it. (There is a maxim that says, "If it fits on a bumper sticker, it isn't true." While I generally ascribe to this,....," - Jan Wessnitzer