Medical Underwriter Urges You to Be Open to New Things

Name: Arbace Officioso

PhD: Medical Biotechnology and Biochemistry, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 2016

What was your main area of research?

I studied heavy metal toxicity in red blood cells and cognitive impairment and the protective role of natural antioxidants.

What is your current job?

I am a Medical Underwriter for Munich Re in Madrid, Spain.

My job entails evaluating insurability risk (morbidity and mortality risks in the insurance field) related to disease, sport, residential, and medical events.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I really appreciate the economic stability and recognition.

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

Critical thinking, data analysis, project management, and medical knowledge (pathologies, instrumental examinations, analyses, etc.)

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

When the reinsurance company hired me, they enrolled me in a 3-month full-time learning programme, teaching me all the principles of insurance and reinsurance. Actually, I am still involved in underwriting courses in order to enrich my insurance field knowledge (recently obtained FALU diploma).

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

LinkedIn. I was looking for a job around the world.

PhD graduate ➡️ Quality control biology (Pharma company, 6 months) ➡️ Consultant Underwriting

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

Be open to learning concepts that go beyond your academic training. For example, if you have a degree in biology, you CAN learn about economics without any limitations.

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

I left because of economic instability and limited career opportunities (becoming a professor is almost impossible).

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

The world is full of ‘non-academic’ opportunities, you have to be open to learning new things that go beyond your field.

Are there any components of your identity you would like to share, including how they have impacted your journey?

There are several things that played a part in my journey including: economic instability, academic hierarchies, and insecurity in achieving a defined academic profile.