Science Writer & the Importance of Trying Things Out

Name: Manel Llado (he/him)

PhD: Molecular Medicine, University of Milan, 2020

What was your main area of research?

I developed CRISPR-based gene editing approaches to edit cells in the retina and the liver to treat rare genetic diseases.

What is your current job?

I am a Science Writer for the Institute of Molecular Biotechnology in Vienna, Austria.

I produce written and audiovisual content about the science at our institute for diverse audiences and media, including social media, press and our own website.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I love being in contact with the science and the people who do it, without being in the lab.

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

Multitasking and communication

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

I freelanced for 2 years, taking small projects in a variety of fields and honing my communication skills in many different situations.

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

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PhD graduate ➡️ postdoctoral fellow ➡️ Science Writer

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

Start writing about what you're passionate about, either for yourself or for whatever audience you can get. Say yes to any crazy project that comes your way and develop your skills.

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

It was hard, but I realized I didn't enjoy the day-to-day of being a scientist as much as the idea of science itself. I was not happy and needed a change.

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

There are a million different paths and opportunities. Try things out, if it's not for you, try something else. And follow your curiosity and what makes you happy!