Career and Professional Development
Career Development & Exploration
We encourage you to explore opportunities and learn about career pathways for bioscience Ph.D.s. In addition to scientific knowledge and research ability, you will also need skills in communication, management, leadership, and professionalism to succeed in your chosen field. To develop these skills, DBBS offers workshops throughout the year. We plan a variety of seminars in professional development and invite guest speakers for career talks. Visit the Seminars & Workshops page for more information. Joining a campus organization can also further develop these skills.
Planning for Your Next Step
Students and postdocs should identify at least two long-term career options. An IDP can help you set goals and stay on track to attain the desired career.
Students wishing to pursue an academic postdoc should begin searching approximately one year prior to defending. Students should look for postdoc positions that will provide them with skills and training that align with their long-term career goals. Since postdocs are hired directly by the PI, it is important to engage in individual networking and contact with PIs to secure the postdoc position.
Students and Postdocs wishing to pursue non-faculty career paths should begin job searching approximately six months before they would want to start their new position. This process includes preparing the appropriate job search materials for the desired field and networking to identify available positions. The Career Center can help with this process.