Ep 31: To do a postdoc or not to do a postdoc…. - Propelling Careers Podcast

In the last few weeks, Jim and I have received a number of questions from graduate students about whether or not to do a postdoc, so we thought we would devote an episode to this important topic. It’s not a simple yes/no answer - there is a lot to consider including these points below, when you are making this choice.  We hope you enjoylistening!     Why would someone do a postdoc?  What skills you are looking/need to build (hard and soft skills) What type of institution Choice of Mentor  Type of postdoc, Academic research, academic administrative, Teaching, Industry research, Industry non-research, AAAS, etc How long should someone do a postdoc?  Lauren Celano, CEO of Propel Careers and Jim Gould, the Director for Postdoctoral Affairs at Harvard Medical School, launched this podcast as a way for us to share our advice, insights, and reflections to help others navigate their careers. As we develop new episodes, this podcast will provide insights regarding career advice to help listeners navigate career choices and become more confident in their decisions. We look forward to busting myths and providing real life, timely, and accurate advice. Jim and Lauren work heavily with Ph.D. trained scientists, but the advice we provide can be applicable to other audiences. We hope you enjoy listening!