Why talk about alternative science careers?
December 13, 2008 by Admin
Filed under Careers
In the “Careers” category, our goal is very simple.
We will highlight and provide ideas for those who receive a scientific training, yet who would like to apply their knowledge and critical thinking skills in a non-traditional area.
In other words, we will write about careers that may require scientific training/thinking skills, but are not in the research field directly.
Why do we think this category important for this website?
If scientists are working in alternative careers, they will, beyond a doubt, bring a fresh perspective and a science-based way of thinking to that field, which will eventually benefit society in one way or another.
View our latest blog entries in the Alternative Science Careers category…
I agree that an open dialogue about alternative careers is very important! It is important for developing scientists to know that there is life outside of academia, and that it is not a crime to leave academia for something less traditional. I think if some of the more established scientists were also more aware of the alternatives, and the value that they give to both the research and the lay community, it would help to limit the stigma of leaving academia. And of course the public should know that not all scientists are old men in white coats hunched over a lab bench (but that goes way beyond just alternative careers!)
Here is an excellent book that gives an overview of many different jobs in science: Alternative
Alternative Careers in Science: Leaving the Ivory Tower by Cynthia Robbins-Roth. It is a great place to start learning about our options.
Hi Sarah,
Absolutely agree with you. Thank you for your comment and insight about this topic. Also, thank you for the recommendation for the Alternative Careers in Science book a while back. I am currently reading it and thoroughly enjoying it