Name: James Banal (he/him)
PhD: Chemical Physics, University of Melbourne, 2016
What was your main area of research?
In my PhD, I investigated how molecular aggregates can be leveraged in artificial light-harvesting devices, developing a computational and experimental platform to study efficient energy transport across micron length scales. This work facilitated the fabrication of efficient solar harvesting devices. During my postdoc, I pursued two main research threads: First, using DNA assembly to create artificial light-harvesting structures mimicking photosynthesis, which allowed exploration of quantum effects in these systems. Second, I studied DNA-based information storage and computation, with applications in digital storage, genomics, and biothreat surveillance.
What is your current job?
I am the Co-Founder of Cache in San Carlos, California.
As a founder of an early-stage startup, I wear many hats: I manage the major research thrusts of the company, I talk to potential customers, I help develop business strategies, and I fundraise through venture capital and non-dilutive channels.
My favorite part of the job is working to understand why our potential customers are interested in our product.
How did you find this position? What were the career steps you took to get to where you are now?
I started the company.
PhD graduate ➡️ postdoctoral associate ➡️ co-founder
Why did you decide to not pursue a career in academia? Was this a difficult decision or one you felt came easily?
I was pursuing academia and was working towards a professorship position, but I realized that continuing on the academic path back then would reduce my ability to take significant risks later in my career. Recognizing that startup opportunities require substantial risk-taking, I decided to explore this direction now, while I still had the significant flexibility to do so. This choice allows me to apply my research skills in a more entrepreneurial context, taking risks that would be harder to pursue if I waited until later in my career.
What are three pieces of advice you have for someone getting their PhD and looking to pursue a career outside of academia?
Start exploring non-academic career options early in your PhD. Attend career fairs, informational interviews, and networking events to learn about different industries and roles where your skills could be valuable. This early exposure will help you make informed decisions about your career path.
Develop transferable skills alongside your research. Focus on skills like project management, data analysis, communication, and teamwork that are highly valued in many industries. Seek opportunities to lead projects, collaborate across disciplines, and present your work to diverse audiences.
Build a network outside of academia. Connect with professionals in industries you're interested in through LinkedIn, alumni networks, and professional associations. Participate in internships or collaborative projects with industry partners if possible.