AsianScientist (Dec. 9, 2016) – Let’s set the scene a little bit. I was at the opening night dinner of a technique-oriented conference, seated at a table with an eclectic mix of industry types and academics, ranging from students to more senior levels.
The night went on and the drinks flowed, the truth juice (i.e. alcohol) loosened a few tongues. A student piped up with a question for one of the industry representatives on how they got their job.
In their story, they highlighted that it was a combination of studying the right thing and being in the right place at the right time. However, several things stood out to me, and I felt that this is a topic worth discussing with scientists who are thinking of leaving academia for other fields.
Be aware of your decision as soon as possible
Sure, it’s tough to make this call if you’ve spent most of your life thinking that you wanted to be a scientist. However, if you discover you don’t have the manual dexterity to work in a lab, have a mutually non-viable relationship with your supervisor/s, are finding yourself disillusioned by job insecurity or are simply no longer interested, it is better to get out rather than stay in an area as demanding as academic research.
By being aware, you could try to figure out what it is you need, and where, to continue your career.
Not hating the bench, but wanting something other than academia? Perhaps a research position in a company is a possibility.
Prefer explaining and talking about your work, rather than running experiments? Maybe you could go into scientific communication or public relations.
Hate science completely? Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are highly valued by consulting companies. Make your decision and then do what you need to get what you want.
Expand your skills
The unfortunate general perception of scientists is that we are all lone wolves with no skills beyond whatever tinkering we do in the lab. While we all know this is completely false, it doesn’t help convince the human resources person who’s reviewing your CV for that industry position. What will convince them is either experience or certifications.
Yes, you’ve spent the last ten years as a student, but if you can find some precious time to get in some knowledge on economics, marketing, management, intellectual property, clinical study co-ordination, or other fields that might help you switch from the lab to an industry, please do it.
If you’re doing your PhD, check out if your institute provides extra courses for grad students. Otherwise, many university courses may be accessed through massive online open courses, on platforms such as Coursera or EdX. If you need a certificate, take note that some of these courses may not be free. NEXT PAGE >>>
