Mobile communications have transformed the average workplace, and the science workplace is no exception. The potential to work remotely has led to a higher level of job satisfaction and a sense of increased productivity, according to the Kelly Global Workforce Index, a survey conducted by workforce-management company Kelly Services. But this boost in connectivity and productivity has taken a serious toll on scientists' work–life balance.

Nearly 100,000 professionals, including more than 3,000 in the international science community, responded to the survey across North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific region. Questions focused on respondents' work–life balance and ways in which technology has affected their lives and careers.

The positive results: a big boost in perceived productivity. More than 70% of science professionals surveyed said that the ability to remain in constant communication with their work is a positive development. And 80% believe that they are more productive now than they were before the advent of mobile communications technology. Yet this sense of higher productivity comes at a price, the survey found. More than a third of science professionals polled worldwide are dissatisfied with their current work–life balance.

Telecommuting has hastened the disappearance of the line separating work and home. Eighty-three per cent of the 3,000 scientist respondents said that a workplace policy on telecommuting is an attractive component in deciding where to work. But with laptops and smartphones always within arm's reach, almost 30% of the scientists surveyed said that they are working more hours than they used to.

Employers must forge a balance. According to survey findings, employees who have a good work–life balance tend to be more productive, more engaged and happier in their work. To maintain employee morale and productivity, managers should provide rewards to employees for good performance — for example, extra holiday time, or restaurant or entertainment coupons. Happy researchers are those who not only have access to the technology, but also the means and the incentives to completely disconnect.