This insightful episode features Emmanuel Tsekleves, Ph.D., a full professor at Lancaster University and research director in Lancashire, England. Emmanuel shares his personal journey from Ph.D. graduate to full professor by age 40 and offers invaluable advice on how Ph.D. candidates, postdocs, and early-career academics can successfully navigate the complex academic job market. From avoiding common application mistakes to the importance of securing funding, this conversation is packed with practical tips for aspiring academics.

• Start Early & Learn from Mistakes: Dr. Tsekleves highlights the importance of mentors and learning from early mistakes in his academic journey. He emphasizes that mistakes can be powerful learning tools but suggests it’s even better to learn from others’ experiences.

• Transitioning from Postdoc to Assistant Professor: Many postdocs fall into the trap of discussing future research plans rather than focusing on securing funding. Emmanuel explains how this common pitfall can hinder postdocs’ chances of securing tenure-track positions.

• Application Quality vs. Quantity: Sending out many generic applications will likely yield poor results. Emmanuel stresses the importance of focusing on a single application, conducting thorough research on the institution, and aligning your application materials with their specific needs.

• Speak to the Postholder: Before submitting an application, Emmanuel suggests reaching out to the academic contact listed in the job ad. This helps you gain insider information, shows genuine interest, and gives you visibility with those making hiring decisions.

• Show How You Add Value: Instead of listing your qualifications, demonstrate how your skills and experience align with the needs of the institution. Show how you can contribute to their teaching programs, research groups, and overall mission.

1. Avoid Common Pitfalls: Postdocs need to shift their mindset from talking about research to discussing the funding they can attract. Learn to demonstrate value by focusing on what you bring to the institution.

2. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Tailor each application specifically to the institution and role, showing how your research and teaching expertise fit their culture and objectives.

3. Engage with the Hiring Institution: Reach out to the postholder before submitting your application. It gives you a chance to learn more about the role and make a strong impression.

4. Research and Personalize Your Applications: Whether you’re applying for a postdoc or a tenure-track position, be sure to thoroughly research the department and align your cover letter, research statement, and teaching statement with their current projects.

Dr. Emmanuel Tsekleves is a professor at Lancaster University, where he also serves as research director. His work includes mentoring early and mid-career academics, helping them publish high-quality research, secure funding, and navigate the academic job market. He offers a variety of resources, including training programs and his popular newsletter, Academic Insider.

Connect with Dr. Emmanuel Tsekleves:

• LinkedIn: Emmanuel Tsekleves
• Twitter/X: @EmmanuelTsekleves
• Instagram: @EmmanuelTsekleves

Bridging the Communication Gap for Scientists and Engineers: Insights from “Speak Like a CEO” Thought Leader Oliver Aust

In this episode of When Science Speaks, I sit down with Oliver Aust, one of the world’s preeminent experts on leadership communications. Oliver has helped hundreds of founders and CEOs become top 1% communicators, including many leaders with a scientific or engineering background.

Oliver shares actionable tips and insights in his books, LinkedIn and newsletter, as well as on his popular podcast, Speak Like a CEO. Those interested in working with Oliver can join the Speak Like a CEO Academy (links to Oliver’s offerings in the Resources section below).

During the episode, Oliver highlights common communication challenges and offers strategies for improvement, such as using clear structures, storytelling, and simplifying language. He also emphasizes the importance of understanding one's audience and dealing with linguistic nuances for non-native English speakers.

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Clear Communication

00:21 Challenges for Scientists and Engineers

00:39 Career Transition Beyond Academia

00:54 Exploring Communication Improvement Options

01:00 Guest Introduction: Oliver Aust

01:57 Common Communication Blind Spots

03:28 Transforming Leadership Communication

04:41 Practical Hacks for Effective Communication

06:18 Case Studies and Real-World Examples

10:33 Overcoming Language Barriers

16:44 Final Thoughts and Actionable Tips

19:08 Conclusion

Resources Mentioned in the Episode

Oliver’s LinkedIN profile

Oliver’s books: Available on this page

• Message Machine: How Communications Will Make You an Unstoppable Founder

• Unignorable: Build Your Personal Brand and Boost Your Business in 30 Days

• Mastering Communications: How CEOs and Executives Can Build a Great Reputation in the Digital Age

• How to Speak Like a CEO: How successful leaders communicate

Speak Like a CEO:

• Podcast

• Newsletter

• Academy

In this episode of 'When Science Speaks, host Mark Bayer talks with Bill Mahoney, Ph.D., Associate Dean of Student and Postdoctoral Affairs at the University of Washington.

The discussion centers around the importance of mentorship in academic and professional development.

Dr. Mahoney shares valuable insights on how to choose the right mentor, manage mentoring relationships, and recognize the signs of both beneficial and detrimental mentorship dynamics.

Bill also emphasizes the significance of having multiple mentors and leveraging networks to seek career opportunities beyond academia. Additionally, the episode explores the concept of the 'hidden curriculum' and ways to navigate unseen challenges in higher education.

00:00 The Importance of Mentorship

00:21 Choosing the Right Mentor

01:00 Managing Mentoring Relationships

03:54 Avoiding Pitfalls in Mentorship

06:08 Navigating the Hidden Curriculum

11:55 Career Development Beyond Academia

15:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts