What do you do if you're a mid-career nurse interested in research or academia?

1 Assess your interests and goals

The first step is to identify your areas of interest and your career goals. What kind of research questions do you want to explore? What kind of academic role do you aspire to? Do you want to teach, mentor, or lead? Do you want to work in a university, a research institute, or a hospital? These questions can help you narrow down your options and focus your efforts. You can also talk to other nurses who have made the transition to research or academia and learn from their experiences and advice.

3 Gain relevant experience and skills

The third step is to gain relevant experience and skills that will help you succeed in research or academia. You can look for opportunities to participate in research projects , either as a collaborator, a co-investigator, or a principal investigator. You can also seek mentorship from experienced researchers or academics who can guide you through the process and provide feedback. You can also develop your skills in writing, presenting, teaching, and reviewing by publishing your work in journals, conferences, or books, delivering lectures or workshops, teaching courses or seminars, and serving as a peer reviewer or editor.

4 Build your network and reputation

The fourth step is to build your network and reputation in the research or academic community. You can network with other researchers or academics who share your interests or goals, and who can offer you support, collaboration, or referrals. You can also join professional organizations, societies, or committees that are relevant to your field or discipline, and attend events, meetings, or webinars that can help you stay updated and connected. You can also showcase your work and achievements on your resume, portfolio, website, or social media platforms, and promote your visibility and credibility.

5 Explore your options and opportunities

The final step is to explore your options and opportunities for research or academic positions. You can search for job openings on online platforms, websites, newsletters, or journals that specialize in research or academic careers. You can also create your own opportunities by applying for grants, fellowships, or contracts that can fund your research or academic projects. You can also reach out to your network and contacts and ask for recommendations, referrals, or introductions. You can also prepare your application materials, such as your cover letter, CV, research statement, teaching statement, and samples of your work, and tailor them to the specific position and institution you are applying to.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?