In 1929, the nomination of the Swiss psychologist Jean Piaget (1896–1980) at the University of Geneva was a crucial moment for the University, which engaged a man that would soon become the most important Swiss scholar in social and human sciences during the 20th century. Far from making it easy, his nomination put many obstacles in his way, which the young Neuchâtel conqueror had to surmount. This process sheds some light on his mindset: he worked ceaselessly, he negotiated with his peers, and remained highly sociable. This social factor helps to explain the strengthening of Piaget's position both as head of the Institut Jean-Jacques Rousseau and at the University, which also laid the basis for achieving his – also internationally – undisputed status.