Tag Archives: UCLA

An overseas research intern’s journey in Japan

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My overseas internship experience significantly increased my knowledge of research culture and lifestyles in foreign countries.

Guest contributor Andy Tay

Previously, I shared my thoughts on the usefulness of an overseas working experience to establish networks with international experts, and to develop cultural awareness — both of critical importance in a researcher’s career. This year, I decided to head to Japan, Tokyo to work on stem cells as a summer intern at the RIKEN Brain Science Institute (BSI).

If you’re thinking of an overseas internship, especially in Japan, my hope is that this will be of help to you.

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Andy in his new lab

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Securing workplace rights for scientists in the age of Trump

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Unions could be the best way to protect scientific jobs in uncertain times, says union president Anke Schennink.

In the wake of Donald Trump’s election, the scientific community is on edge. The future of federal science funding remains unclear, campus inclusivity is under threat, immigration policy is in disarray, and entire academic fields – such as climate change research – fear the worst.

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UC Postdocs in solidarity at UCSF on a day of bargaining.

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Bridging science and real world impact with confidence

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What does it take for someone in science to make a difference in the world? We often seek success and validation through the rigour of our research and studies, but the key may be in our attitude.

Naturejobs career expo journalism competition winner Diane N.H. Kim

Confidence is not something we normally associate with science. In this field, grounded in facts and far from emotions, it’s no wonder we have trouble seeing how our attitudes affect our success. A confident attitude is considered much more important for an actress on the red carpet, or a politician delivering a speech. Scientists are still largely portrayed and perceived as solitary individuals with passive personalities, spurred by a media portrayal of a lone scientist in their basement lab.DK_profilepicture Continue reading →

The art of negotiating a better salary

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Andy Tay picked up some tips on negotiation at the Naturejobs Career Expo, San Francisco. Here they are.

Naturejobs career expo journalism competition winner Andy Tay

Negotiation is a powerful skill. And, whilst graduate education arms you with technical credentials for a career, it often misses out training for soft skills like negotiation. An ability to negotiate effectively can convince your counterparts to care for your interests, allowing you to maximise personal gains such as pay or career development.

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At the recent Naturejobs Career Expo, San Francisco, Doug Kalish shared some pieces of advice with the participants on the art of negotiating for one’s interests. Here’s some of his tips on negotiating job offers and salary. Continue reading →