Ali Landman
Deputy Editor at The Lancet OncologyWhere you begin doesn’t have to be where you end up, and there can be lots of stops and changes along the way!
Where you begin doesn’t have to be where you end up, and there can be lots of stops and changes along the way!
I am grateful that I get to wake up every day as my own boss, able to help researchers who do want to achieve academic career success go as far as they want to.
Transitioning out of academia is not easy–it takes time but find a way to use your skills and training for whatever is next.
That there’s no need to worry about knowing too little or not having enough experience – there will always be more to learn and if you’re passionate, committed and hard-working.
My advice for researchers leaving academia would be: do not be afraid! There are many varied roles out there – more than you realise!
If you are interested in a career in science publishing and communication, seek out opportunities to improve and demonstrate your science communication, critical thinking and writing skills.
My main piece of advice would simply be to get that first job, and not worry too much about whether it’s your dream job or not.
People ask me how they can prepare for an editorial career at our journals. I always suggest that researchers get involved in the submission and peer review of their own papers.
I love working in a challenging, diverse and fast-paced environment with a great team of people who make work fun and enjoyable.
The skills I acquired from the years spent in academia have been invaluable in this role and I am very grateful that I can continue to put them to good use.