Name: Crystal Herron, PhD, ELS (she/her)
PhD: Biomedical Science, Albany Medical College, 2011
What was your main area of research?
As a graduate student, I studied the role of functional domains of p120 catenin on VE-cadherin expression and endothelial barrier function. Although I didn't do a traditional postdoc, I did what I call a "postdoc" in clinical research for several years, mostly in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery. In those roles, I got experience in everything related to clinical research: designing studies, mentoring clinicians, working with sponsors, enrolling patients, collecting data, writing grants and manuscripts, and more.
What is your current job?
I am the Founder and CVO of Redwood Ink in San Rafael, California.
I am an editor, educator, and writing coach who helps scientists and clinicians communicate with clear, concise, and compelling writing. I am also an international speaker and educator. I lead webinars, workshops, and courses to equip researchers and other professional writers with the principles, resources, and systems they need to write compelling manuscripts and grants.
I love serving others. This is the foundation of everything I do in my company. I enjoy helping researchers and other professional writers clearly and persuasively convey their research and ideas.
How did you find this position? What were the career steps you took to get to where you are now?
I created it! After working as a full-time editor for a research organization, I knew there was a greater need that I could fill. When I couldn't find the new job I envisioned, I created it.
PhD graduate ➡️ Clinical researcher and educator ➡️ Scientific Editor ➡️ Founder and CVO
Why did you decide to not pursue a career in academia?
I went to graduate school with the full intention of one day running my own lab. But near the end of my studies, I found that I enjoyed the science, but something was missing for me. It wasn't an easy decision or transition. I hadn't been exposed to many alternative careers, so I just started exploring a variety of jobs. In those jobs, I learned that I have a passion for writing and communication. Once I learned that, the decision was easy.
What advice do you have for someone getting their PhD and looking to pursue a career outside of academia?
Take advantage of every opportunity to learn about alternative careers (eg, panels, workshops, informational interviews). You never know what you might discover.
Know that you don't have to have it all figured out right away. You can experiment and try on career paths to see how you feel about them.
Get support from mentors, peers, and professional organizations. Having a community to support you can make all the difference as you navigate changes in your career (and life!).
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