DEAR JOYCE: With a bachelor's degree in biology, my daughter is at a crossroads, trying to decide what's next. She's not interested in becoming a doctor but isn't certain whether to go ahead with more science education. I've heard that the 21st century is the Age of Biology. True? -- C.D.

Perhaps so, perhaps not. Here's a thumbnail update for candidates for this century's most lauded science.

Will the 20th Century Physics Age, newly sparked by Europe's multibillion-dollar Hadron proton supercollider, continue to grab headlines? Will the Age of Biology, fed by the mapping of the human genome, take over the spotlight? Will the 21st century become the Age of the Robot, named for the machines that may be beating out humans on the "smart scale"? All three are realistic scenarios, not science fiction.

Among the sciences, your daughter has lots to choose from for a career direction. But as you put biology under the microscope today, check out these two excellent resources:

(1) American Institute of Biological Sciences, aibs.org, a site with lots of relevant articles.

(2) Science Careers, sciencecareers.sciencemag.org, also a site of many informative features, including a new booklet, "Young Women in Science: Forging New Pathways"; find it by clicking on Booklets.

DEAR JOYCE: At a recent interview, I could feel the sag toward the end. Is there anything I could have done to bump it up again? -- T.Y.

You might have luck resuscitating a wilting interview with the following tip I learned from Martin Yate, the author of the fabulous "Knock 'em Dead" job search books. Essentially, you ask to be hired:

"Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to prove myself here today. I am convinced that I am the best person for this job. I want you to give me a trial and I'll prove on the job that I am the best hiring decision you'll make this year. Will you give us both the opportunity?" Continued...