Invited Talk ESA-SRB-ANZBMS 2024 in conjunction with ENSA

Research Scientists Breakfast Session - Saving an endangered species (#644)

Michelle McDonald 1 , Patrick Western 2 , Wayne Tilley 3
  1. Bone microenvironment Group, Cancer Theme, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health. The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
  2. Germ Cell Development and Epigenetics Group, Head Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research. Dept. Molecular & Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
  3. Director, Dame Roma Mitchell Cancer Research Laboratories, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, AUS

Discoveries in science provide an essential foundation for translation in the clinic and underpin our current technological base. A recent strong focus on translational outcomes by Government and funding agencies at the expense of supporting discovery science creates significant pressure on career development and outcomes. This session will discuss the value of fundamental science to society and strategies to ensure the survival of basic researchers.

Three scientists with years of experience in endocrinology, reproduction, agriculture, bone biology, and cancer will share their perspectives on how to survive the everchanging landscape of basic research. Through self-advocacy, taking opportunities, adapting to situations and building solid networks, we have developed and maintained careers in basic and translational research. In this session we will share from our experiences lessons we have learnt which helped establish our careers and how we have adapted to survive current challenges. We will provide personal insights into how to navigate the precarious early-mid career stage when scientists, especially women, too often leave our industry. Following these insights we will facilitate a panel discussion with audience contributions.

Discussion points include:

  • Defining your research focus – key considerations for impact and long-term success
  • Strategies for achieving funding success - surviving the hard years – being adaptable
  • Tips for growing out from underneath a PI - it can be hard and messy – including the importance of independence versus interdependence
  • Building collaborations and managing them - they don't always work out but are well worth the effort when they do
  • Balancing publication quality vs quantity - do not put all your eggs in one basket but quality creates impact
  • Establishing mentor/coach/sponsor relationships - diversity is key
  • Balancing work and life - everyone sees this differently, know what is important to you