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How to ask for a letter of recommendation?

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Find your dream job, PhD, postdoc, Professor, Research Career

We all know the problem – you need a letter of recommendation – but you do not know whom to ask and how to ask. In many contexts, letters of recommendation are required, such as applications for scholarships, fellowships, grants, new positions, awards and honors, and professional development programs. In this article, you will find the open secrets of asking the right person to write you a great letter of recommendation – even if you do not know the person yet.

Best books on salary negotiation and getting a raise

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Find your dream job, PhD, postdoc, Professor, Research Career, Work/life balance

Negotiating an excellent salary is crucial because it sets the foundation for your long-term career satisfaction and financial security. A well-negotiated salary boosts your morale, leading to greater motivation and productivity and reflecting your organizational value. However, effective salary negotiation requires preparation and strategy. The following negotiation books might help you negotiate a higher salary or better conditions.

Why Salary Matters in Science Careers

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Beyond academia, Find your dream job, Passion and pain, PhD, postdoc, Professor, Research Career

Scientists often shy away from discussing money and salary, considering it a taboo topic that distracts from pursuing knowledge and discovery. However, the reality is that salary plays a substantial role in job satisfaction and overall career success for scientists in academia and industry. What should you do?

What is a Reader at a University?

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Find your dream job, Professor, Research Career

The job title “Reader” can confuse jobseekers in academia due to its differential use across countries. In the UK, Australia, and some Commonwealth nations, it denotes a senior academic position between Senior Lecturer and Professor. In the Commonwealth system, it is often used synonymously with the title Associate Professor. This is confusing because the terms Reader/Associate Professor would correspond to different ranks in the US.

How to choose the best postdoc position?

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Find your dream job, Families in science, Leadership skills, PhD, postdoc, Publish or perish, Work/life balance

Choosing the best postdoc position for your future career in science is essential. However, most young scientists have no plan for finding the position(s) that fit best and choosing with care. Several key questions will help you find the postdoc position that fits your needs, talents, and skills.

Should I admit that I want to become a professor?

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Find your dream job, PhD, postdoc, Professor, Research Career

Many PhD students and most postdocs want to pursue a career in academia. However, is it a good idea to admit that you want to become a professor? Would you appear overambitious or pretentious? Or does it ruin your career to hide your ambitions from potential mentors and decision-makers? What should you do?

Job interview outfits in science – what to wear?

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Beyond academia, Find your dream job, PhD, postdoc, Research Career

Job interview outfits in science differ from those in other industries. In academia, basic scientists may underdress, while doctors and clinical researchers tend to overdress. Traditional attire may suit big pharma and established tech firms, while start-ups may favor smart-casual looks, and the social sector might value approachable attire.

What is the best publication strategy in science?

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Find your dream job, PhD, postdoc, Professor, Publications, Scientific independence

Young scientists often get conflicting advice on how they should publish. Every generation of young scientists has to address similar questions: Should I publish several smaller papers or focus on one big paper with a high impact factor? What is the effect of my publication strategy on my scientific career and the possibility of raising grant money? How important is my publication list for a non-academic career?

Will I find a job as a scientist?

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Find your dream job, Beyond academia, Passion and pain, PhD, postdoc, Professor

Young researchers are often disoriented about what they should do with their expertise and whether they will find a job after their doctorate or postdoc. The good news is that the unemployment rate of PhD holders is surprisingly low. The bad news is that young scientists often do not work in the field they have expected.

How to become a professor? A 10-step career guide!

ByProfessor Sven Hendrix Find your dream job, Grants, Leadership skills, Mobility, Networking, Passion and pain, PhD, postdoc, Publications, Publish or perish, Research Career, Scientific independence

Being a professor is amazing: a lot of academic freedom to investigate and teach exciting subjects and a secure salary until retirement. However, obtaining this position can be pretty strenuous, and many young scientists do not know the requirements to qualify for such a position. In this article, I give you 10 essential parameters a selection committee will evaluate when selecting a new professor.

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