Professional Skills

At a recent CV/Resume Drop-In Clinic, a postdoc asked us about the correct procedure for following up with an alumnus who had agreed to look at his resume. The postdoc felt the in-person interaction was worthwhile, but the alumnus had not responded to the email. Should he email… Read More

During your scientific conference or the BRET Career Symposium you wrote a bunch of notes in the program, heard some interesting advice, and maybe even made some connections. But now what? This is a great time to make some plans! Write out four different goals that you hope to achieve and… Read More

It seems, especially in the fall semester of the academic year, there are numerous new seminars, classes, and opportunities that are just too good to pass up. The programs usually have a lot to offer in terms of learning, self-assessment, and – let’s be honest – free snacks!… Read More

A new online course offering free online training in Data Management and REDCap starts June 2, 2014. The course is available to anyone at no cost (regardless of location or institution affiliation) and will run approximately 5-weeks. This course is designed to teach important concepts related to research data planning,… Read More

The goal of the ASM Kadner Institute is to give senior graduate students and early-career postdoctoral fellows hands-on training to develop the skills needed for a successful career in microbiology, and to introduce them to the broad range of careers in the field. The Institute takes place as an intensive,… Read More

Check out our new Beyond the Lab video series showcasing the careers of our PhD and postdoctoral alumni! In Beyond the Lab, the BRET Office of Career Development interviews Vanderbilt PhD and postdoctoral alumni about their career path since leaving VU. Each 10-20 minute video features a different alumnus describing his… Read More

Your professional journey will be unpredictable and unforgettable. Begin your journey by understanding your strengths. Strengths Finder 2.0 is a great place to start. (Linda Distlerath) Have a good dose of humility. In your first job, find a buddy who can help guide you through the unwritten protocols and etiquette… Read More

“An Introvert’s Guide to Getting the Most From A Conference” by Dharmesh Shah Ideas fly around the room. Informal teams form and mutate and re-form. Decisions are quickly made and un-made and refined. Plans are drawn and re-drawn and perfected. Three hours later, you and a room full of… Read More

Instead of responding via email, Allison Vaillancourt recommends avoiding these email “drone strikes” in favor of face-to-face discussions or phone conversations. It may be uncomfortable, but honing your communication and conflict resolution skills will pay off in your professional career. … Read More