Preparing for an Academic Career in the Geosciences
Conveners
Lisa Gilbert, Cabrillo College
Claire McKinley, Bellevue Community College
Claire McLeod, Miami University-Oxford
Mintesinot Jiru, Coppin State University
Rebecca Beadling, Temple University
Lynsey LeMay, Virginia Peninsula Community College
Christy Visaggi, Georgia State University
Sue Ebanks, Savannah State University
Securing a position and being successful in academia can seem daunting. Further, the universe of academic career options in the geosciences looks overwhelming. The Preparing for an Academic Career in the Geosciences workshop has been designed to confront these concerns and discuss tips, strategies, and coping mechanisms for success in teaching and research in academia from a variety of geoscience professionals at a range of institutions. What kind of institution is right for you? How can you craft the strongest research and teaching statements to land an interview? What does it take to get your first grant? What does it take to succeed as a teacher? How do you stay focused and keep your lab and classes motivated so you can meet criteria for tenure? The workshop will provide a stimulating and resource-rich environment in which to explore these kinds of questions and other important facets of an academic career. Faculty members and administrators will provide guidance and information that will help participants to be stronger candidates for academic positions and to succeed in academic jobs. Session topics focus on becoming both a successful teacher and researcher. Each participant will develop or revise a plan for the next career stage and will take home ideas to improve teaching immediately.
Stipends
Thanks to generous donations from NAGT members and donors, this year's Preparing for an Academic Career workshop is able to offer a limited number of stipends to participants. Learn more about and apply for a stipend by May 1!
Intended Audience
This workshop is designed specifically for graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, and others who are interested in pursuing academic careers in the geosciences (including geology, geochemistry, geophysics, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, geography, environmental science, and other allied disciplines). We recommend faculty members already in a full-time faculty position consider attending the Workshop for Early Career Geoscience Faculty instead.
Goals
- Develop a plan for your next career stage. Set goals to move toward that plan.
- Outline the job search process and select the types of positions that best match your values.
- Improve your job applications: practice documenting strengths and accomplishments in teaching and research and develop or revise your teaching and research statements.
- Improve your communication skills: create and practice an elevator pitch.