One reason: some can make $150K+ (some can even make $500K+). If you get a coveted post, then you could end up with a high salary and the freedom to research wh

One reason: some can make $150K+ (some can even make $500K+). If you get a coveted post, then you could end up with a high salary and the freedom to research what you would likely research in your free time anyways. Also, if you move from professor to administrator you can make $300K+ with arguably fewer work hours and responsibility.