(cm/Li) The various courses of study in the Life Sciences are booming. But what do all the life scientists do after they’ve finished their studies? Four of them showed examples of careers based on studies in Life Sciences at an event that took place at the University Hospital last Friday evening entitled "Science Careers and Beers". Owing to the presence of numerous PhD graduates from other countries, the event, organised by "Life Science Zurich" (1) was held in English.

The Assistant Professor

Peter Gallant, the straightforward academic career: he holds a SNF-professorship (2) for developmental biology at the University of Zurich and his only doubt concerning his future career had arisen before he took up his studies. At the time he was unsure whether to study physics or chemistry instead of biology. After reading "The 8 days of creation" the signpost clearly pointed to biology. He says that the time following the completion of a PhD is decisive for a scientific career. In this period one has to show what one is capable of by publishing. His goal is to continue to do research. A good network will help him to achieve this.

The cancer specialist

Nadine Maradan, via practice to cancer specialist: After concluding her studies at ETH Nadine Maradan left the halls of academe. Following a few unsuccessful applications she got a job as "Clinical Research Assistant" in a small company. Had this not been the case, she would perhaps have started to study for a PhD. As it happened, she learnt to organise clinical trials in a strictly regulated environment. After a few years of practical experience she succeeded in getting a position as Medical Advisor in the area of cancer research in a bigger company. Above all, for Maradan, this means studying the literature. She thinks that an MBA or marketing training is essential to further her career. But first she wants to start a family. From her point of view, a PhD is of diminishing importance in the private sector.

The Science Journalist

Christian Heuss wants to explain science: the science journalist from Swiss Radio DRS could have imagined taking up research after his PhD, even though he feared that, as a specialist, he could become isolated. He changed sides and tried to capture the views of the public as a journalist. By freelancing as a journalist and by acquiring a US science journalism certificate he got himself the tools needed for professional journalism. Heuss enjoys the diversity of his work and the contact with top researchers. Looking back he thinks that his passion for an academic career was simply not strong enough.

"Science Careers and Beers": A beer with Life Science adherents and a chance to talk about their careers (Centre: Science journalist, Christian Heuss). large

The advisor

Andrea Neuhof, Study for the acquisition of transferable skills: The most important thing with a PhD is not good results, but the title, thinks Andrea Neuhof, who works at a consultancy. She appreciated research but considered that it had too little impact on what people actually do. On top of that, everything in science takes a considerable length of time and the danger of becoming socially isolated is greater than elsewhere. Analytical ability and independently carrying through a project are skills that the advisor can use very well in her job. As a possible future course, Neuhof sees a change to a biotechnology company. Her PhD and consulting experience should be ample qualifications for this.

Overall, all four judge their studies as a positive experience. To the question of the best way to take afterwards, the general tenor was: first of all to become aware of ones own inclinations. The around 100 attendees of the event left with the certainty that studying Life Sciences is not a one-way-street leading to a single destination, but rather a route that branches off in various directions – surely an encouraging idea for lots of students. The recurring emphasis during the event on the difference between life at university and real life became somewhat irritating. And how studying at a university could be brought closer to reality, remains an open question.