Re: [name redacted]

Lisa Randall needs advice re a possible move from the Harvard Physics Department to either Caltech or NYU, both of which have extended job offers. She's unhappy at Harvard, where the department seems to be intent on pulling the rug out from under her at every opportunity, and she wants a change. I am writing to all of you because I am out of my depth in advising her on her choices between universities and physics departments, compensation packages, etc. In this regard, it occurred to me that any of you might have good advice and/or connections and that Lisa might benefit by talking to you directly.

Some background:

I believe NYU has already matched her Harvard salary and just this week, a donor put up $5 million to build up the physics department around her if she comes (i.e. adding two more senior faculty, support services, etc.).

She prefers Caltech, both for the department and the ambience of LA. Their offer involves much less teaching but also less money. I have advised her not to take a penny less than she is making now. If there are resources available to allow Caltech to match her deal with NYU, that would require someone who knows the department to check it out (and that's not me).

As Lisa's literary agent, as far as getting the attention of the media and readers in general, Harvard is the gold standard, and Caltech is high-value. But NYU is not even on the cultural map. (I have exactly one client there and don't know of anyone to chase). In any event, Lisa's next book is sold and this shouldn't be a consideration in her decision. And in general, it hasn't hurt Steve Weinberg and Shelly Glashow to have left Harvard.

I know: Lisa is not easy. Some people are that way. But I say she's worth it. And, in terms of science, we all need to do what we can to give women a place at the table. It's not easy being a woman - perhaps the top woman - in theoretical physics, and nobody expects her male counterparts to be regular guys (nor are they). As I have said many times with regard to myself and the people I like to talk to: "Nice isn't enough". (And that includes all of you!).

I have been part of the group trying to get her to come to Caltech, so I am too conflicted to offer objective advice. That said, Caltech is the clearly the right choice. -Danny