Toby Freedman <tobyf at uts.utexas.edu> wrote in article
<tobyf-1511972002460001 at haarerlab.zo.utexas.edu>...
> Hello. I am a postdoctoral fellow about to begin a job search. Because
> of dismal postdoctoral paper output, academics is out. And I am not
> thrilled about working at the bench any longer--"burned-out" so to speak.
> I would like to find a science-related, people-oriented job. Does any
one
> have any suggestions? If you have followed a similar path and are happy
> with your current job, or know someone who is, please email me and tell
me
> about your job. Thank you in advance!
Dear Toby,
I read your message on bionet-women-in-bio. First of all, I absolutely
understand your lab bench burn-out!! Secondly, academics is not necessarily
out of the question, just because of poor publishing during your postdoc. I
know this from personal experience.
I am currently teaching at Colorado College (a private, 4-yr, highly
selective liberal arts school with excellent research facilities) after 2
1/2 years of an "unproductive" postdoc. Granted, this is a sabbatical
replacement position, but they are hiring a tenure-track position next
year, and the department is very supportive of my chances at getting it.
Also, I recently interviewed at Buffalo State College and was offered a
position there (which I didn't take for many reasons). I did not publish a
peer-reviewed article during my postdoc. I did, however, get part-time
teaching experience during my postdoc.
Depending on what level of academics you want to work in, you should
definitely keep an open mind about positions. I really love teaching here,
where the students are highly motivated, and I have a lot of freedom with
classroom formats. I am working harder than I ever have in my life, and I
am also happier with my work than I have ever been. Consider teaching at a
community college, or even at a private high school (no state teacher's
certificate required!), if you love teaching. You might also consider
science writing for a local newspaper. Goodness knows the lay public could
use better and more accurate scientific reporting!
I wish you well in your search. If I can be of any help, just e-mail me!
