Name: Gabriel Kaufman (he/him)
PhD: Immunology, McGill University, 2017
What was your main area of research?
I studied novel biological treatments for allergic asthma. We used intravenous immune globulin (IVIg) to induce regulatory T cell responses to reduce inflammation. I investigated the cellular and molecular mechanisms of this regulation using a mouse model of the disease.
What is your current job?
I am a Senior Research Scientist at CTI Clinical Trials & Consulting in Dubai, UAE.
I run statistical and pharmacokinetic analyses on blood test data from drug development trials to determine mathematical parameters that help health care providers use medicines most efficiently. I also ensure compliance with standardized data formatting for regulatory agency submission.
My favorite part is pulling together multiple stakeholders on complex projects and contributing my share to deliver the required results.
How did you find this position? What were the career steps you took to get to where you are now?
I found this position through LinkedIn networking.
Phd grad ➡️ scientific project manager ➡️ associate scientist ➡️ senior research scientist
Why did you decide to not pursue a career in academia?
I knew that I wanted to work in industry going into my PhD. The jobs I wanted either required a PhD, or much preferred a PhD, so I pursued the advanced training.
I didn't want to compete for academic positions where only 10% of PhD graduates get jobs, and then have to spend the next 40 years competing for funding that is only awarded to about 20-25% of project proposals. Academia has become too bloated to be sustainable.
What advice do you have for someone getting their PhD and looking to pursue a career outside of academia?
Be aware that depending on what part of industry you may end up in, the professional culture can be very different from academia. Think work schedules, procedures, deadlines, budgets, and interpersonal relations -- all of these may be very different and more demanding or rigid than in many academic environments. It was a culture shock for me. Checking one's ego is key, especially since PhD holders are "senior entry-level" employees - they are highly trained and knowledgeable about science and background, but usually know little about industry norms and goals.
PhD students -- especially those involved in lab or technical fields -- often focus on their technical expertise instead of their higher-level knowledge, project management, writing, and presentation skills. Technicians are usually less trained and companies want PhD holders to design studies, interpret results, solve problems, and lead efforts.
LinkedIn is great for networking. Reach out to people who you think might help you -- companies you know about, interesting job titles, research fields that you like, and ask to speak about what they do. "Informational" talks -- as opposed to formal interviews -- are very useful.
Are there any components of your identity you would like to share, including how they have impacted your journey?
I like detail work but I also like the big picture. Big-picture thinking is sometimes more appreciated in industry than in academia.