Name: William (Chip) Beckwith (he/him)
PhD: Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, Wesleyan University, 2000
What was your main area of research?
I studied DNA replication and DNA repair in yeast using genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry.
What is your current job?
I am an Associate Director of Business Development at SomaLogic, and I work remotely.
I am responsible for growing the proteomic profiling business in academia, biotech, and pharma. In addition to sales, I am also involved in establishing collaborations and the development of key opinion leader champions.
My job is extremely dynamic and allows me to build completely new markets and emerging applications though strategic planning and collaborations.
How did you find this position? What were the career steps you took to get to where you are now?
I’ve been on the business side of science for over 20 years, but I first realized how marketable my technical knowledge was when a qPCR sales representative kept asking me for technical advice in 2002. That was my epiphany.
PhD ➡️ Molecular Biologist job in Public Health/CDC ➡️ Technical Support ➡️ Business Development
Why did you decide to not pursue a career in academia?
I never wanted to be a PI. When my Public Health job quickly morphed into grant writing, I didn’t enjoy it. Additionally, in business, I can work harder to make more money. It is very empowering.
What advice do you have for someone getting their PhD and looking to pursue a career outside of academia?
I went my own direction in May 2000 and got immense flack. I didn’t fully know what I wanted, but I knew what I didn’t want. If you are sure academia isn’t for you, trust your gut and take a leap. As long as you are learning skills that are marketable, you can never go wrong.
The key is networking and never relying on posted job ads on a website. If something interests you, reach out, express that interest, and show your passion. Asking great questions is a great way to show what you know. Waiting for an interview or waiting for the interviewer's questions is frustrating. Be bold.
Are there any components of your identity you would like to share, including how they have impacted your journey?
I came up with a saying in grad school that sums it up nicely: think outside the box or live in one.