Discovery Scientist & the Importance of Informational Interviews

Name: Suhasini Murali Iyengar (she/her)

PhD: Computational Chemistry, Northeastern University, 2023

What was your main area of research?

During my PhD, I researched Computational Chemistry, focusing on using computer models to aid drug discovery and understand protein structures.

I collaborated with Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital on projects like finding new drug targets for COVID-19 and studying changes in the virus's spike protein. I also worked on methods to help diagnose Parkinson's disease using imaging techniques and developed tools to predict protein functions based on amino acid properties.

What is your current job?

I am an Application and Discovery Scientist in AI and Cheminformatics for MilliporeSigma, based in Boston, Massachusetts.

As an Application and Discovery Scientist, I excel at the convergence of innovation and impactful outcomes. Within the Digital Chemistry team, I lead transformative initiatives in AI, Cheminformatics, and drug discovery.

Drawing on my expertise, I provide invaluable guidance to medicinal chemists in navigating intricate drug design projects.

Additionally, I spearhead pre-sales activities and craft compelling scientific and marketing content. Committed to ensuring customer success, I oversee onboarding efforts, deliver technical training, and cultivate internal stakeholder development.

Grounded in a collaborative ethos and equipped with a comprehensive understanding of small molecule drug discovery, I am driven to deliver measurable outcomes and contribute to scholarly publications.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I love that I get to teach non-experts how to use complex computational chemistry software.

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

Being able to communicate complex ideas and information to non-expert audiences

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

Schrodinger's Online courses, AI/ML courses from Coursera

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

The CEO of the startup reached out to me to schedule an informal discussion about the role, then I was called in for multiple rounds of interviews with a final on-site interview. After a few days, I was offered the role.

PhD graduate ➡️ Industry Application Scientist

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

If you're interested in pursuing a role similar to mine in Computational Chemistry or drug discovery, starting with informational interviews is a fantastic idea. These interviews involve speaking with professionals in the field to gain insights into their career paths, daily responsibilities, and the skills they find most valuable. By engaging with a variety of people across different roles and institutions, you can form a clearer picture of the diverse opportunities available and identify which aspects of the field resonate most with your interests and goals.

Begin by reaching out to researchers, industry professionals, and academic mentors who work in areas you're curious about. Prepare thoughtful questions that can help you understand their career trajectory, the challenges they face, and the evolving trends in the field. This process will not only expand your network but also provide you with practical advice on the skills and experiences that are most relevant for your desired career path.

Additionally, consider asking about the educational background and specific technical skills required in their roles. This can guide your academic choices, such as selecting courses that offer training in molecular modeling, bioinformatics, or other relevant areas. You might also inquire about the importance of soft skills, like communication and teamwork, which are crucial for collaborative projects in research and industry settings.

Overall, informational interviews are a strategic way to explore your career options, gain mentorship, and develop a roadmap for acquiring the necessary skills and experiences to succeed in the field of Computational Chemistry or drug discovery.

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

I decided not to pursue a career in academia because I was always drawn to the idea of transitioning into the industry. From the very first day of my PhD, I felt that working in an industrial setting would better align with my interests and career aspirations. The dynamic and application-focused nature of industry appealed to me more than the academic path, which often emphasizes theoretical research and teaching.

This decision came quite easily to me, as I was clear about my goals from the outset. I was particularly interested in the practical impact of research and the opportunity to work on projects that directly contribute to advancements in drug discovery and healthcare solutions. The collaborative and fast-paced environment of industry seemed like a perfect fit for my skills and interests, offering the chance to engage with cutting-edge technology and innovation.

Throughout my PhD, I focused on gaining skills and experiences that would be valuable in an industry setting, such as project management, teamwork, and applied research techniques. This clarity in my career direction helped me make informed choices about my professional development and ultimately facilitated a smooth transition into the industry.

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

For someone pursuing a PhD and considering a career outside academia, a strategic approach can make all the difference. Start by identifying what you don't want to do, which can help clarify what you actually want to pursue. This self-reflection is crucial as it allows you to narrow down your interests and focus on areas that truly excite you.

Engage in informational interviews with professionals who are already working in the industry. This will provide you with valuable insights into various career paths, help you understand the skills and experiences needed, and give you a better sense of what day-to-day work looks like outside academia. These conversations can also reveal industry trends and opportunities that you might not be aware of.

Building industry connections is another key step. Attend networking events, conferences, and workshops where you can meet people from different sectors. These interactions can lead to mentorship opportunities and open doors to potential job offers or collaborations. Having a strong network can be incredibly beneficial when transitioning from academia to industry.

Additionally, consider gaining practical experience through internships or collaborations with industry partners during your PhD. This will not only enhance your resume but also give you firsthand experience of working in a non-academic environment. Ultimately, staying open-minded and proactive in exploring various options will guide you toward a fulfilling career path outside academia.