Hello Bio Careers® Readers!
I am grateful for being invited to write blog posts for this community. I have been following the blogs on Bio Careers® for quite some time and now, so getting an opportunity to share my experiences with others on Bio Careers® is quite amazing.
Hello Bio Careers® Readers!
I am grateful for being invited to write blog posts for this community. I have been following the blogs on Bio Careers® for quite some time and now, so getting an opportunity to share my experiences with others on Bio Careers® is quite amazing.
When I started with this blog, I wondered, am I experienced enough to advise others about “Career Transition?” But then I thought to myself, “Although I may not have the vast experience being in the early phase of my career, I do have some unique professional experiences that I can write about. It will be an honor to share my knowledge and contribute to the available information out there. I do not intend to write an advice column, but to simply communicate what I know with you, hoping it will be of benefit.
So, join me as I begin my NEXT step – Blogging.
Who am I?
Professionally, I am a postdoctoral associate at Duke University, Durham, North Carolina. I work in a translational research environment at Duke, focusing on clinical patient samples to identify novel biomarkers and develop diagnostics tools for prevention of breast cancer. I have a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida. Here I discovered novel signaling mechanisms that induce carcinogenesis and tested the effects of pre-clinical chemotherapeutic agents.
My love for science began when I was introduced to the world of Biochemistry during my undergraduate years at University of Mumbai, India. My insatiable interest in the subject kept me engaged in the Master’s program focusing on Clinical Biochemistry. In my leisure time, I love experimenting with my culinary skills to invent new recipes. I also love traveling, volunteering for social causes and making new connections.
To what do I aspire?
I have always been passionate about biomedical research and have enjoyed my research work because of the positive impact it has on public health. Working in an academic setting for so long, it is really hard to let it go. But I think I am finally ready to explore what is out there. I am seeking opportunities where I can apply my analytical, interpersonal and writing skills at an organization that believes in teamwork, work-life balance and giving back to the community.
What do I plan to write about?
● Insights into academic life in the US: During my 8 years of experience in academia, I have worked in different facets of academia, research (basic, translational and clinical) and teaching, and I plan to share what I know with you.
● Professional development tips: I can provide tips on how to find opportunities to improve upon your skills and also share information on how to gain quick leadership opportunities in and outside your institution. As Vice-President for Graduate Women in Science, Rho Tau chapter, NC and Chair for Duke University Postdoc Association (DUPA), I have organized several professional development workshops such as 1) How to Master your Networking skills; 2) How to be Assertive in Life; 3) Negotiation, Problem Solving and Conflict Resolution; 4) Alternative Science Career panel discussion and more. I will share all that I have learnt from these workshops with you.
● Visa advice for international students: I am also very well accustomed with visa related issues in the US being an international student myself and now a postdoc on an international work visa. I shall share the knowledge that I have gained along this arduous immigration path.
All in all, in my future blogs I intend to share my experiences and thoughts on how I reached here and what I have learnt.
Stay tuned and see you next time.
