The Department of Chemistry and Physics continues its Seminar series. Details for this week’s talk are given below.
Friday, March 1
3-4 p.m.
Grote Hall 411
Derek Anderson (UTC Chemistry ’17), senior research associate at Neurona Therapeutics, South San Francisco, CA
A Noncanonical Path to Success
Abstract: Education provides many paths to fulfillment in a scientific career, and that road has many bifurcations which appear unorthodox along the path to earning a Ph.D. Success is subjective and personal, and mine originates from a perceived failure: an abrupt exit from doctoral training for industry. There are several advantages and challenges which come from pursuing research with a Master’s Degree, but, ultimately, it has been a rewarding path for both personal scientific growth and societal change. This presentation reflects my journey into biotechnology industry and discovering a rich intellectual space to flourish in. Companies such as my employer, Neurona Therapeutics, serve as a role model in providing this nurturing environment for all degree levels while simultaneously making a direct impact on human health. I will share insights into the composition of a biotechnology start-up including funding, division of intellectual labor, position hierarchy, and collaboration opportunities. Lastly, there are numerous mentorship and outreach opportunities which are offered by the private sector that can hone communication and networking skills. The path may be noncanonical, but industry without a Ph.D can be a rewarding career full of scientific exploration, leadership, cutting-edge innovation, and personal pride.