In the science lab, some bullies can thrive unchecked for decades

Bullying claims suggest a scientist's life is at odds with the profession's noble ideals

• Bosses at leading UK science institute accused of bullying staff

The science lab is often perceived as a place of noble endeavour, where the conflicts and political manoeuvring of the average workplace are transcended by shared goals to, say, unravel the mysteries of the cosmos or cure cancer.

However, the experience of life as a scientist sometimes appears to be at odds with these ideals. In the past year, a series of high-profile cases in the US and Europe suggest alarming levels of harassment and bullying within the academic sector. In a recent survey by the University and College Union, one-quarter of researchers said they had been bullied by colleagues, with many reporting enduring trauma and anxiety.