Forging a New Career Path
The primary job market for science PhDs is no longer the ivory tower. Where are the job opportunities?
Many non-scientists envision researchers toiling away in labs located in ancient university buildings, interacting only with lab mates and other academic researchers. But job statistics tell a very different story: Today only 14% of PhD graduates go on to careers in academia.
"There is a growing appreciation of the value PhD-trained scientists bring to roles beyond research," says Monica Kerr, Director, Science Alliance at the Academy.
So where are the jobs for PhDs? And what skills do PhDs need to succeed in these career paths? Below, the Academy presents a variety of resources that explore alternative (or are they now mainstream?) science careers.
Science PhDs are showing up in diverse and exciting careers, from biotechnologist, to patent law expert, science writer, pharmaceutical salesperson, industry consultant, and medical communications specialist. What skills are needed to break into these fields?
From the PhD to Equity Research Analyst
Interested in translating your science critical thinking skills to the market? Listen to Caroline Corner describe how she left the lab bench to break into the finance industry as an equity research analyst and consultant.
From the PhD to Management Consulting
Want to learn more about consulting? Hear Jeremy Buzzard, a PhD in molecular and cellular biology, talk about his career in management consulting as a partner at McKinsey & Co.
A Career Development and Entrepreneurship Workshop
This eBriefing documents a workshop designed to educate young Russian scientists about career development and job preparation, entrepreneurship, and commercialization.
The Impact of Influence: Why Scientists Need Mentors
No matter what the specific career path, renowned cardiologist Valentin Fuster believes that caring mentors are vital to helping young scientists succeed.
About the New York Academy of Sciences
The New York Academy of Sciences is an independent, not-for-profit organization that since 1817 has been committed to advancing science, technology, and society worldwide. With 25,000 members in 140 countries, the Academy is creating a global community of science for the benefit of humanity. The Academy's core mission is to advance scientific knowledge, positively impact the major global challenges of society with science-based solutions, and increase the number of scientifically informed individuals in society at large. Please visit us online at www.nyas.org.