Transitioning From Academia to Industry: Suggestions From Insiders

Emanuela Offidani, PhD;^1,2 Jennifer Huberty, PhD; ^3,4 & the Behavioral Informatics and Technology SIG

As chairs of the BIT-SIG who work in industry, we often receive requests from junior researchers on how to transition from an academic position to industry. Making the transition from academia to industry can be a challenging process, but it can also be a rewarding one. We have both experienced the ups and downs of this process. We know firsthand that the skills and experiences gained in academia can be invaluable assets in industry. At the beginning of this process, it is critical to understand what industries value most in job applicants and what skills you can leverage to stand out in the job market. In this piece, we provide suggestions and insights for SBM members who want to transition from academia to industry.

Build and leverage your Network. Networking is critical for anyone who wants to transition from academia to industry. Attend industry conferences and events, and join professional organizations to meet potential employers. Online professional networks, such as LinkedIn, can also be a valuable tool for building your network and finding job leads. Reach out to your network of contacts and industry members within SBM. Let them know you’re looking for a job in industry. Your network can help you identify job openings, provide referrals, and offer insights into the job search process.

Identify your transferable skills. While academic research may seem far removed from industry, the skills gained in academia such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and project management, are extremely valuable. Highlighting these skills in resumes and cover letters is essential.

Understand the value of science in Industry. Science can be integrated across a company and you should be knowledgeable about how to do that. Ensure you are able to clearly communicate to industry with all the ways in which science can help companies get to know their customers, make important business decisions, and build sales and partnerships. 

Learn about the field you’re interested in. To make a successful transition from academia to industry, it’s important to understand the field you are interested in. Researching the field, its current trends, and the types of companies that operate in the space can help make a decision. 

Be flexible. The job market can be competitive, and it’s important to be open to a variety of job opportunities. Consider not only jobs that are similar to one’s field of study, but also roles in related industries which can accelerate the process. For example, a scientist may find a career in science writing or science consulting.

Build your brand. A personal brand is the professional reputation and the image one presents to potential employers. It is important to be proactive in building your brand by creating a professional online presence and networking with others in the field sharing research and writing on professional platforms, such as LinkedIn and Twitter.

Be prepared for the interview. The interview process can be stressful, but it’s important to be well-prepared. While industry jobs may not have the prestige of academic positions, it’s important to emphasize the passion for the work one is applying for. Important elements of the interview process are researching the company, understanding the advertised role, and being ready to discuss how qualifications and relevant experience can help the company grow. 

Overall, building a network is key to successfully transition from academia to industry, and SBM can help with that. Indeed, SBM members can access resources such as past webinars and use the SBM Consultation Program to connect with an industry member for career advice and informational interviews. In addition, understanding how the scientific skills acquired fit the job and the company will be essential to facilitate this transition. Most importantly, our advice is to follow your passion in relation to the field and company in which you choose to work.  

List of SBM resources:

• https://www.sbm.org/training/webinars/webinar-recordings
• https://www.sbm.org/membership/consultation-program 

References: 

¹ Lumos Labs Medical, San Francisco, CA

² Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY

³ Fit Minded, Inc, Phoenix, AZ 

⁴ Mays Cancer Center, University of Texas Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX