Preparing for an Academic Career
About This Talk
There’s a lot to know before starting your first job as a researcher at an academic institution. This comprehensive talk will guide you through the essentials, from understanding academic career paths and building a strong research portfolio to developing teaching and mentoring skills.
Speakers
- Professor Caroline Ross
- Associate Professor Robert Macfarlane
- Professor Juejun Hu
- Assistant Professor Suraj Cheema
About the Career Development Series
The Career Development Series is a five-part lecture series from the DMSE Academic Office designed to help graduate students and postdocs navigate key career challenges. Sessions will cover essential skills like networking, crafting a strong CV, acing interviews, and delivering compelling research presentations. The series also explores career paths beyond academia, including industry, startups, and consulting.
Explore the other Career Development Series events below.
Scientific Networking
Networking might not be the first skill budding scientific researchers think they need to master, but it’s crucial for a successful career. This talk will explore the benefits of building relationships with other researchers, institutions, and industries; how to choose the right conferences to attend; and the most effective ways to communicate your work. Thursday, May 1 | 2 pm to 3 pm | 6-104 (Chipman Room)
Speakers
- Associate Professor Rafael Gomez-Bombarelli
- Associate Professor Robert Macfarlane
- Associate Profesor Cem Tasan
- Assistant Professor Rodrigo Freitas
Mastering Faculty Applications
Presenting yourself on paper is a crucial part of the academic researcher job hunt. In this talk, learn the ins and outs of the faculty application process, how to write compelling research and teaching statements, and how to build an impressive CV. Thursday, September 11 | 12 pm to 1 pm | 6-104 (Chipman Room)
Speakers
- Professor Polina Anikeeva
- Professor Caroline Ross
- Associate Professor Cem Tasan
- Assistant Professor Suraj Cheema
Crushing the Interview
How does your research fit with the department? What is your teaching philosophy? How will you secure funding? Get used to these questions—you’ll likely be asked them in interviews. This talk will cover common interview questions, presentation skills, and strategies for engaging with the interview panel and connecting with potential colleagues. Thursday, October 2 | 12 pm to 1 pm | 6-104 (Chipman Room)
Speakers
- Professor Polina Anikeeva
- Associate Professor Robert Macfarlane
- Assistant Professor Rodrigo Freitas
- Assistant Professor Thomas J. Wallin
Building a Career Outside Academia
Academia isn’t for everyone. Attend this talk to explore career paths outside academic institutions, including industry roles, startups, and consulting. Learn how to identify transferable skills, build a professional network in industry, and tailor your resume to highlight problem-solving and results. You’ll also discover the key steps to take when launching a startup. Thursday, November 13 | 12 pm to 1 pm | 6-104 (Chipman Room)
Speakers
- Professor Polina Anikeeva
- Professor Frances Ross
- Associate Professor Cem Tasan
- Assistant Professor T.J. Wallin