Since humans are involved, research is a social process. As a researcher you are part of a community of scientists who learn from each other — problems, ideas, methods, writing, reading, evaluating, publishing, and funding science. To participate in your research community, you need to form relationships with senior leaders, your peers, and junior researchers. Consequently, networking is a critical social skill for research. It is not using people, nor a substitute for high quality research. This talk discusses the dynamics of social relationships in science with tips on: (i) how even the shyest researcher can meet people at your home institution and professional meetings; (ii) how to sustain your relationships, and (iii) how to make them rewarding and fun. The session will include a practicum.