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

2. Academia
PhD – pre-term labour
Postdoc

3. Why change?

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

5. My roles so far…

6. Day to day role

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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!

10. Any questions?