Careers in Industry for Scientists

22 February 2005, MIT

Dr. Gail Martino, Gillette Advanced Technology Center

Dr. Martino has a background in cognitive science and signal processing, and spent several years as a professor before moving to industry. She spoke to GWIS about why a scientist might choose a career in industry and what skills PhD scientists have to offer to industry, as well as differences in culture between academia and industry and how the job search differs for each. She noted that industry is a good choice for those who like to apply learning to real-world problems. She also pointed out the benefits of working in industry, such as the reality of few academic job opportunities, more flexibility in terms of location, and lifestyle issues, including compensation and family planning. She commented that there are still a lot of myths and guilt about PhD scientists who pursue an industrial career, including, "you only want money," "you'll never publish again," and "you can never come back once you leave." She did note that scientists in her position publish internally, but the recognition you achieve is more typically within your group, division, or company, rather than from your wider field of research. PhD scientists offer many skills to industry, including the ability to read, interpret, and analyze scientific data, creativity, ability to present information to non-technical people, and motivation. Dr. Martino pointed out two major differences in culture between industry and academia. In industry, multidisciplinarity more typically means working with lawyers, marketers and/or engineers, rather than just chemists and biologists, for example. Secondly, there is a lot more change in industry, and it can be very extreme. This includes everything from corporate mergers to projects being suddenly dropped. She reminded the audience to keep up their network and maintain contact with professors and professional organizations. She also suggested that for PhDs who might be interested in a career in industry, it might be wise to start with a one-year industrial postdoc or an internship.