Today sees the launch of the new Professional section in The THES , which brings together our regular coverage of teaching issues and other career-oriented features. Six regular columnists will address practical issues in academic life, from dealing with the media to collaboration on research projects. The section will also highlight trends in the employment market, as well as telling the stories behind the choice of successful candidates for posts advertised in recent months. The intention is to help academics make the most of their current job and find the next one. But if the section is to fulfil its potential, the process should be a two-way one. Readers are invited to raise their own problems, anonymously if they wish, and to make suggestions for its further development.