BGS Career Development

Making It Count!

Rebecca Lopez

The Open Notebook: “Feeling Like a Fraud”

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This feature in The Open Notebook explores the phenomenon known as impostor syndrome, specifically within the field of science writing. According to the author, feelings of being an impostor are especially common in competitive and creative fields, and those where evaluations are subjective. Within the field of science writing, there is an additional component. Writers tend to compare their multiple, imperfect drafts with others’ polished, published pieces.

The author also describes tactics to mitigate feelings of impostorism, such as seeking social support or reframing your accomplishments.

Read more here.

ASCB: “The stranger in the lab: Staff scientists”

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This ASCB article provides clarity on the often obscure role of staff scientists. The author asserts that although many students and postdocs are interested in these positions, openings and job descriptions can be difficult to find. The article then explores academic staff scientist positions, including a number of possible titles and responsibilities. When searching for these positions, word of mouth can play a critical role.

Overall, the author explains, “If you like the ‘doing’ part of science and not the writing /funding part of it, a staff scientist position may be a great fit for you. Furthermore, staff positions can be a great example of transitional careers—a place to learn new things and make you a better scientist for future endeavors.”

Read more here.

OITE: “Basic Overview: The US Academic System”

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For students interested in pursuing an academic career path, the NIH Office of Intramural Training & Education (OITE) Careers Blog provides this overview of the US academic system. It provides information on the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. This listing allows you to search by classifications including graduate programs, undergraduate programs, enrollment profile, and more. The article then describes the types of jobs available within various institutions, as well as different classifications of funding.

Read more here.

Science: “Develop your career label”

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JON TYSON/UNSPLASH

This article in Science describes the career challenges faced by scientists who find themselves entrenched in a niche field. As the author explains, “That’s great if what you’re doing is aligned with your passions and long-term goals—but it’s a big problem when it’s not.” Since the hiring process tends to be compressed, recruiters may focus on the applicant’s current, niche responsibilities rather than extrapolating about their larger potential. The author provides decision-making tips to avoid becoming stuck with a too-narrow label.

Read more here.

IHE: “Nonprofit Leadership by and for Early Career Scientists”

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In this Inside Higher Ed article, Adriana Bankston (associate director of fundraising and strategic initiatives at the Future of Research) shares her perspectives on the transition from academe to a nonprofit career. She lists some of the skills that translate from one to the other, including organization, professionalism, dependability, and team work. She also acknowledges difficult aspects of the transition, such as working with much different data and research as well as needing to articulate the bigger picture of that work.

Read more here.

Careers in Research Compliance

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The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) provides an overview of the importance of research compliance. The author asserts that the entire science community is responsible for holding one another to high standards of research integrity. They then delve into descriptions of key institutions (such as university research compliance departments) and core areas (animal welfare, conflicts of interest, and more.) Finally, they list a sample of job postings as well as relevant certifications and trainings.

Read more here.