Launching a Career in the Private Sector of Digital Health

Amber Carmen Arroyo, PhD (SBM Transitional Member) & Cynthia Castro Sweet, PhD (Industry Connections Committee Chair)

Every year, more SBM trainees transition to careers in the private sector of digital health - joining companies that build and disseminate behavior change programs. This month, we will follow one SBM member on this road less traveled!

Dr. Castro Sweet: Tell us about your background?

Dr. Arroyo: “In Spring 2022, I completed my PhD in Psychological Sciences at the University of California, Merced, specializing in health psychology with a quantitative methods certificate. My research focused on the implementation of behavior change techniques in digital interventions for sleep.”

Dr. Castro Sweet: What was your next step after finishing your PhD?

Dr. Arroyo: “I’m currently juggling a postdoc and consulting part-time for a digital health company. The postdoc is an excellent opportunity to strengthen my expertise, while the consulting provides experience in an applied setting.”

Dr. Castro Sweet: What did you do in graduate school to prepare you for the private sector?

Dr. Arroyo: “I interned at a startup one summer during graduate school. This helped me understand the roles for someone with a PhD in industry, and the importance of translating science for diverse audiences. I attended any/all seminars related to industry and technology. I also spent extra time tailoring my research presentations to be engaging and accessible to a broader audience outside of academia.”

Dr. Castro Sweet: What kinds of roles and organizations have you explored? 

Dr. Arroyo: “Mostly digital health and tech companies. I have used Twitter, LinkedIn, and my network to compile a list of relevant companies and remained updated on their new roles and developments.”

Dr. Castro Sweet: What is it like to apply/interview?

Dr. Arroyo: “I noticed that every company handles the process a bit differently - larger companies take more time (i.e., technical interviews, multiple interviews with hiring managers and teams), while smaller companies may just have one round before making an offer. While applying, I framed my experience in terms of measurable outcomes and used non-technical language like “research project” instead of “thesis”. Behavior scientist roles are very collaborative! So when describing my work with faculty and RAs, I emphasized how I was working on a team.”

Dr. Castro Sweet: Who helped you along the way?

Dr. Arroyo: “I got a mentor (Dr. Cynthia Castro Sweet) through the pilot SBM Mentoring program. In our small group, we worked on our resumes/cover letters. She also shared resources and job postings and gave advice on making LinkedIn work for us. I consulted with her on correspondence with hiring managers, interview prep, and more! I also leaned on other grad students from my program who transitioned to industry - we shared resumes, advice, and experiences. I also reached out to SBM members who work in industry. Those informational interviews were a great resource to build my network and learn about skills and experiences that are desirable in industry.”

Dr. Castro Sweet: What advice do you have for others?

Dr. Arroyo: “Network wherever you can, get a mentor, and don’t be afraid to ask for an informational interview. Remember to consider your professional and personal needs when applying to jobs. Also keep in mind that nothing is certain until a contract is signed - industry funding can be tricky, especially with startups!”