Do I belong there?

I often hear these words when talking to scientists. Especially those interested in public policy or science diplomacy. Academia trains you to stay in academia, so jumping into an 'alternative' career can be challenging.

If you’re currently working within a scientific discipline but feel a pull to explore other areas. Seek advice and mentorship from others who have successfully transitioned to that field. If you are thinking about science policy, I highly recommend applying for the two fellowships I recently posted.?

The Christine Mirzayan Science and Technology Policy Graduate Fellowship Program (Mirzayan Fellowship), the Jefferson Science Fellowship and of course, the AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowship (AAAS STPF) help fellows gain significant experience at the intersection of science and policy. If you're interested, I’ve posted links to more information in this post's comments.

I know many people who have been through these programs, and they leave with the knowledge needed to navigate our changing world. Many, including me, still work in policy. In fact, I too asked myself "Do I belong there?" when preparing my application for the Roger Revelle Fellowship in Global Stewardship back in 2011. This was the transformational experience that started my career in Washington.

Whether you’re early in your career or tenured faculty, these great programs help you learn and grow while also helping silence those thoughts saying you don’t belong. Even if you no longer are doing research or teaching, the skills you gain working in science become a part of who you are. It’s very easy to think your skills as a scientist apply only in academia. The ways scientists think about complex problems and synthesize them into action is a unique and crucial skill.?

If you’re reading this and hesitating over applying because you think you don’t belong at a program like this: you belong in the room. Take a chance on yourself and apply.

Send me a message if you’re interested in applying, and I will be happy to tell you more.