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BioProfessionals

PhDs in the life sciences have a variety of career options when they finish their degrees. In addition to academic research, Northwestern alumni have gone on to roles in biotech and pharma industries, patent law, consulting, science writing, government, teaching and science policy, to name a few. We are committed to helping all students and postdocs find a career that is right for them and to helping them develop the skills necessary to embark on a variety of rewarding science careers. The BioProfessionals program is a collaborative effort currently directed by staff from the biology graduate programs (DGP, IBiS and NUIN). Three separate, yet interconnected, programs, open to all students and postdocs, promote learning about potential career paths and developing the skills necessary to succeed in them: BioOpportunites, BioSurvival Skills and Pathway to the Professoriate. In addition, a number of student groups, postdoc associations and university offices also provide career development and guidance for biology PhDs.

BioOpportunities

Brings PhD alumni with careers outside of academia to campus to talk about their career paths and network with current students. Recent topics have included careers in industry and science writing and editing.

Pathway to the Professoriate

Hosts discussions about issues related to obtaining jobs in academia. Recent topics have included finding a postdoc, mentoring and preparing an application package.

BioSurvival Skills

Hosts workshops to develop skills important for obtaining and performing your job, inside or outside academia. Past topics have included resume writing and grantsmanship.

Contact Us

If you are interested in BioProfessionals events, sign up for our listserv to receive email updates or browse our PlanIt Purple calendar. If you have questions, concerns or suggestions, contact Pam Carpentier.

Our Supporters

The BioProfessionals Program is made possible by the contributions of various programs, departments and schools at Northwestern University and the Feinberg School of Medicine. We would like to acknowledge the following, which provide staff and/or monetary support for our programs:

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