If you’ve worked at the bench for awhile, your only reference to the world of consulting is probably the two Bobs in the movie “Office Space.” They’re the hatchet men who swoop into a company, fire a bunch of people, and fly back home. But is that an accurate picture of consulting work, or a just bit of satire?
This week, we turn the tables and ask a biomedical PhD/management consultant: “What would you say you do here?” You’ll be surprised by her response!
Choosing a lab for your graduate or postdoc research is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Most people read papers and abstracts to find the coolest science. Or they favor the big labs with lots of people and solid funding.
But those features can distract you from the real secret of scientific success. Read More
When you’re worried about today’s experiments and tomorrow’s time points, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s really important for your career and your life. Why not start the New Year with a new perspective?
“How about setting down the pointy scythe, son. You’re making grandpa nervous.”
Looking Back and Moving Forward
In this episode, we consider the advice of Robert J. Sternberg, PhD, a self-described geezer and well-respected academic. He’s Professor of Human Development at Cornell University, and has co-authored over 1,500 publications. He wrote an article for the Chronicle of Higher Education laying out his career advice for other academics.
His tips range from simple (“Save as much money as you can”) to subtle (“Be true to yourself”), but all of them are worth a few moments of consideration as we enter 2016. Here’s the list, with more detail included in the article:
Don’t tie up too much of your self-esteem in someone else’s evaluation of your work.
Take stock periodically.
Have a hobby. See the world. Or both.
Help others.
Take some risks.
Pop a Cork
Also in this episode, Josh and Dan pop some bubbly to celebrate the New Year and some exciting milestones for the Hello PhD podcast. Thanks to all of you joining us on this journey, and we can’t wait to make science a friendlier, happier place in 2016!
