In the more than 13 years that I’ve served as Editor in Chief for this publication, I’ve never met two fellows’ retreat career speakers who have had the exact same career trajectory. That’s about a hundred people who all took a different path through their STEM training and professional careers—and I would bet that the same diversity of experiences applies beyond NICHD career discussion sessions.
Some of those speakers knew exactly where they wanted to end up in their professional lives, but others had no idea where their destination would be. Through a series of trial and error, they eventually found a career they loved.
I say this to remind fellows that science can be explored and championed in more than one way—and there’s no “right” way to do it. But don’t take my word for it. Our career round table speakers from the 2023 annual fellows’ retreat have shared highlights from their current positions to help fellows learn about the many professions in science.
And as always, the Rep Report and the January Announcements and Events list NICHD-hosted and NIH-wide career development opportunities that can help you find the next stop on your career journey. As the round table speakers noted, take advantage of the NIH programs available to you!
Your Editor in Chief,
Shana R. Spindler, PhD
This newsletter is for NICHD fellows and by NICHD fellows. We want to hear from you! Please send your questions, comments, and ideas to our editor at shana.spindler@nih.gov.