My journey from academia… Laura McCallum November 2014 My journey from academia… … to science comms

Academia PhD – pre-term labour Postdoc

Why change?

The transition Finding the right job Guilt Meetings Multitasking Reactive working People management

My roles so far…

Day to day role

Pros Cons Doing something I love Competitive Sociable Regular hours Training and development/transferable skills Variety A worthwhile cause Still need my science/close to research Engaging with the public (I could go on) Competitive Miss the problem solving/application of results sometimes

Advice Get involved…. Blog Tweet Look for groups Masters Show passion Use your skills – management, public engagement, writing and editing skills, patient links, multitasking, influencing, collaboration

Other thoughts… Be prepared to take a paycut Not only charities, lots of universities are increasing public engagement There are also press officer roles etc Think carefully about the organisation you want to work for Don’t be afraid to make that leap!

Any questions? lauraamccallum@hotmail.com