Oh. I wasn't suggesting that chief science shouldn't be a thing. I just thought the discussion was intresting. This was more what roles you combine for characters, the not a thing was one idea that was floated around for a bit

But I think in general it had to do more with the ship size, so smaller ships would have the main science guy. That post or another mentioned having basically omindisapline geniuses since the vessel was too small for a full set of labs.

Where the big D had that space, I think some of the concensus was it was Data, and he was referenced as the scientist. Granted Data is an android and thus a bit of an exception. His actual position is chief of operations and third in comand. So on the D at least he filled that role, thus what combinations do players use.

Also floated around was Picard just set the command staff as he saw fit, so if the progrative of a captain is to have a dedicated chief science officer to fulfill his charter than he does. I kind of agree with that thought.

So I love the game, and it was a thought experiment. My contribution was more the role was taken over by other roles. Using the example of communications officer, so as tech improved a dedicate position is now an option and not a necessity.

My main question was the second part, I thought some people might enjoy the debate and maybe get some inspiration.