Advice on getting back into a science career

In summary, if you are German and want to find a job in the industry after your PhD, you should check out the APS website and the UARCS affiliated universities. You should also ask your old professors for help.
  • #1
Gigaz
110
37
Hi all

I finished my PhD in condensed matter physics two years ago. At the end of my PhD I was committed on taking an industry job, and that's what I did. I had two jobs in software engineering, and they both sucked quite a bit. Turns out, I was happier in a science career after all. I would like to find a postdoc position, if I can. Where do I start? Do I apply for grants? Where do I find those? Should I ask my old professor for help, and what help specifically?
 
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  • #2
What about an industry job using your Condensed Matter knowledge? You might find positions on the APS website.

https://careers.aps.org/jobs/?keywords=condensed&sort=

https://www.aps.org/units/dcmp/

There's also the UARCS affiliated with several universities. They will have job postings online as well.

The University of Texas at Austin has the Applied Research Lab (UARC) with several Ph.D. postings. Also, I believe the oil industry utilizes Condensed Matter folks too.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_Affiliated_Research_Center
 
  • #3
jedishrfu said:
What about an industry job using your Condensed Matter knowledge? You might find positions on the APS website.

https://careers.aps.org/jobs/?keywords=condensed&sort=

https://www.aps.org/units/dcmp/

There's also the UARCS affiliated with several universities. They will have job postings online as well.

The University of Texas at Austin has the Applied Research Lab (UARC) with several Ph.D. postings. Also, I believe the oil industry utilizes Condensed Matter folks too.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/University_Affiliated_Research_Center

Thank you for your advice. I don't think I can use it. I'm German.
 
  • #5
Yes, ask your professor.
You could also take a look at what large institutes or companies with research groups have to offer. For instance the Fraunhofer institute, or Bosch Corporate Research.
 
  • #6
Absolutely look for physics jobs. The academic route is not the only one. My second career after academia parlayed a PhD (mostly surface morphology and scattering), some innate systems talent, and an assortment of analog optronics experience into R&D work mostly developing medical devices. Very satisfying, usually plenty of funds, and a great cohort of folks. I can't decide whether a small or a large company is more fun. You have talents unknown.
In fact I did a fair amount of work with Boehringer Mannheim (now part of Roche). Everybody should have a physicist
 
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1. How do I update my skills and knowledge after taking a break from my science career?

One of the best ways to update your skills and knowledge is to attend workshops, seminars, and conferences in your field. You can also enroll in online courses or participate in research projects to gain hands-on experience. Networking with other scientists and reading scientific journals can also help you stay up-to-date.

2. How can I address the gap in my resume due to taking a break from my science career?

It's important to be honest about the reasons for your career break in your resume or during an interview. You can highlight any relevant skills or experiences you gained during this time, such as volunteering, freelancing, or taking care of family. Emphasize your passion for science and your commitment to getting back into the field.

3. Are there any specific steps I should take to successfully restart my science career?

Yes, there are a few steps you can take to increase your chances of successfully restarting your science career. First, assess your skills and identify any areas that need improvement. Then, update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your current goals and experiences. Networking and reconnecting with former colleagues or mentors can also be helpful in finding job opportunities. Finally, don't be afraid to start at a lower level or in a different field within science to gain experience and work your way back up.

4. How can I balance my personal life and career while getting back into science?

Balancing personal life and career can be challenging, but it's important to prioritize and set boundaries. Communicate openly with your employer about your needs and any potential limitations. Consider flexible work arrangements, such as part-time or remote work, if possible. It's also crucial to take care of yourself and prioritize self-care to avoid burnout.

5. Are there any resources or support systems available for individuals returning to a science career?

Yes, there are many resources and support systems available for individuals returning to a science career. These include job search websites specifically for returning scientists, networking events, mentorship programs, and professional development workshops. You can also reach out to your local universities or professional organizations for guidance and support. Additionally, joining online communities or forums for returning scientists can provide valuable insights and connections.

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