Technical Project Manager Helps Scientists Solve Problems

Name: Rachel Harris (she/her)

PhD: Chemistry, Northwestern University, 2017

What was your main area of research?

I studied how changing the surface chemistry of quantum dots (semiconductor nanocrystals) affected their optoelectronic properties (absorption, emission, photoluminescence, charge transfer, etc.). These materials are interesting for a variety of applications in energy and consumer electronics.

What is your current job?

I am a Technical Project Manager for Argonne National Laboratory in Lemont, Illinois.

I work with a team on recruitment and down-selection for a competitive entrepreneurial fellowship program and work with entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and move projects forward. I also track project status and think of ways to increase efficiency and implement them.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I love that I get to help scientists solve their problems.

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

Resourcefulness - doing more with less

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

Managing research projects/being a PI gives an excellent foundation for project management. I lean on my industry experience quite a bit, and although the project management certification (i.e. PMP) probably wasn't 100% required, I do think it gives me a leg up.

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

A former connection (hiring manager) posted it on LinkedIn

PhD graduate ➡️ research chemist ➡️ senior research chemist (same company) ➡️ research associate (same company) ➡️ PMP certification ➡️ technical project manager

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

Develop soft skills and pursue project leadership opportunities.

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

I decided pretty much the first week of grad school lol. The PhD was a means to an end for me.

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

1. Be open about your career goals with your advisor.

2. Sharpen communication skills.

3. Develop common sense.

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

As a woman in science, I was selective about my advisor but still struggled to "fit in" with the group for a while.