Scientist Loves Real World Impact and Good Work Hours
- ashleymo5779
- Apr 14
- 2 min read
Name: Jerry Chien (he/him)
PhD: Neuroscience, University of Southern California, 2024
What was your main area of research?
I studied how different types of synapses maintained signaling strength despite being under genetic or pharmacological challenges, a process called synaptic homeostasis. I used the neuromuscular junction of fruit flies as a model system and my main techniques were electrophysiology (two-electrode voltage clamp) and immunohistochemistry.
What is your current job?
I am a Scientist at Latigo Biotherapeutics in Thousand Oaks, California.
I study mechanism of action of candidate drugs, characterize their basic properties, and the basic biology of the target. My main technique was manual patch clamp electrophysiology.
The best part is the potential real world application of my scientific research, reasonable work hours, and paid time off (PTO).
How did you find this position? What were the career steps you took to get to where you are now?
I found this job through a LinkedIn job post and application.
PhD graduate ➡️ Scientist
Why did you decide to not pursue a career in academia?
It was a slow realization during my PhD study that a life in academia is not what I want to pursue. Mainly because of the low pay and the publish or perish lifestyle. I love scientific research and bench work but just don't see myself having a successful career in academia.
What advice do you have for someone getting their PhD and looking to pursue a career outside of academia?
To interview for an R&D industry career, you need to be prepared to present your past research. I presented my dissertation defense talk for my interview. Also, don't limit your skill set to your particular niche of PhD field. I recognized that I was not just a fruit fly scientist but also a neurobiologist who specialized in electrophysiology. This way of thinking broadens what you think as transferable technical skills.
Mainly everything I learned during my PhD prepared me to be a scientist. From writing study reports to powerpoint presentations. Everything.
I used linkedin to connect to my current colleagues during my interview process to get more information about the work culture, job expectations. Go on as many informational interviews as possible. Some will reply, some won't. Also, have someone in industry read your CV/resume and give feedback.