Associate's Job Search Like Planning a Trip to a New City

Name: Nirali Rathwa

PhD: Biochemistry, The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, 2021

What was your main area of research?

During my PhD, I worked on a pre-clinical research project where I studied how a combination of calorie restriction and a compound called GABA could help manage type 2 diabetes in mice. I helped design and run the study, which led to grant funding and two first-author publications.

I also contributed to a clinical research project where we analyzed genetic biomarkers in over 1,000 patients to better understand disease risk. This work involved collaborating with hospitals and research centers, and led to several presentations and publications.

What is your current job?

I am an Associate of the Venture Services & Innovation Team for MaRS Discovery District in Toronto, Canada.

I work with startup founders to make sure they have the support, tools, and connections they need to grow their businesses.

I help create and improve programs that keep startups engaged and make their experience with MaRS incubator better.

I work closely with different teams inside the company to bring the right advice, data, and opportunities to the startups we support.

I also build relationships with other organizations and partners to help startups reach new markets and grow faster.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

Definitely working within the innovation and startup ecosystem, helping founders in their entrepreneurial journey, solving problems and collaborating with a wide range of people.

I am also liking the work-life balance and creative freedom.

What is the most important skill you developed or experience you had during your PhD that now helps you in your current position?

• Learned how to manage complex research projects from start to finish — this helps me plan and lead startup support programs effectively.

  
  

• Developed strong communication skills by explaining scientific ideas to different audiences, which now helps me work with both technical teams and business leaders.

  
  

• Got really good at analyzing data and finding patterns, which I now use to understand startup needs and improve their experience.

  
  

• Learned how to work with many different people — researchers, clinicians, and partners — which helps me build strong relationships in the startup and innovation community.

How did you build the skills necessary for your current role?

• Led cross-functional research projects during my PhD — built strong project and people management skills.

• Presented at conferences and collaborated widely — sharpened communication and networking abilities.

• Took courses in project management and entrepreneurship — gained practical, real-world tools.

• Worked on academic-industry partnerships — learned how to build and maintain strong collaborations.

How did you find this position? What were the career steps you took to get to where you are now?

Lots of networking — talked to people in the field to learn about roles and opportunities.

Did a ton of research — read about organizations, roles, and trends in the innovation space.

Treated it like planning a trip to a new city — asked locals (professionals), explored different “neighbourhoods” (sectors), and mapped out the best path for me.

Stayed curious and open — followed leads, attended events, and made connections that eventually led to my role.

PhD graduate ➡️ Lecturer & Researcher ➡️ Venture Manager/Project Manager

If someone is interested in a similar role, what would you recommend they start doing now to prepare?

1. Start building relationships — attend startup events, join innovation networks, and talk to people in the space.

   
   

2. Get comfortable working across disciplines — practice translating complex ideas for different audiences.

   
   

3. Look for roles or projects where you can support teams, manage programs, or work with startups.

   
   

4. Stay curious — follow trends in tech, innovation, and entrepreneurship to understand what startups need.

Why did you decide to not pursue a career in academia?

I realized I was more passionate about applying research to real-world problems and working with startups than pursuing academia.

The decision was tough, but I wanted a role where I could have a direct impact and collaborate across different sectors.

What advice do you have for someone getting their PhD and looking to pursue a career outside of academia?

1. Start building your network early — attend industry events, connect with professionals, and seek out mentors outside of academia.

   
   

2. Focus on transferable skills — emphasize project management, communication, and problem-solving, which are valuable in any career.