During today’s non-academic careers hybrid workshop, Anne Trinquier (IFREMER, Université Brest) and Patrick Ledru (ORANO Canada, Université de Lorraine) shared their own experience out of academia. Both fluctuated between academic and private employers, the former as an application scientist expert in inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, the latter as a project manager in structural geology.

They gave the audience an insight into their successful transition to industry.

First, their technical expertise (research field or instrument) gained during their academic experience was a determining asset during their recruitment at BRGM, Orano or Thermo Fischer Scientist, although the application field was different.

In addition, they mentioned other key assets that were gained during an academic training. For example, the ability to work in a team, to trace workflow during experimentation, and the capacity to write clear, concise research articles are highly valuable skills for companies.

When looking for a job outside academia, both recommended to maintain a good network. Sometimes, work opportunities in industry come from your supervisor or can be shared during a private discussion at a conference, for example.

Finally, if you are unsure about leaving academia, it is always better to maintain relationships with academic mentors and colleagues but also to keep a good publishing record during the years working in industry. Anne mentioned that it is the case, for example, when your project is evaluated for an ERC grant application.