This includes the number and quality of papers they publish and research grants they obtain. Writing a successful grant application is perhaps the biggest challenge for neuroscientists. It also comes with the biggest reward. A successful application requires meticulous planning, careful background research, and clear writing. Rather neuroscientists win a grant that allows them to get the resources to continue their research.
Neuroscientists compete against each other in other ways.
Sometimes different laboratories race against one another to report a new discovery. The first lab to report the discovery gets the credit. Just like island and outback survivors, neuroscientists find little reward in second place finishes. Labs may also compete over personnel. Even within a university or a department, scientists may compete for personnel or laboratory and office space.