Speaker offers tips for obtaining academic position
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Starting the search process for an academic position may feel overwhelming, and taking things one step at a time is an important way to ease anxiety, according to a speaker at Real World Ophthalmology.
“When I did this last year for myself, I did not even know where to start,” Liza M. Cohen, MD, now an assistant professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, said.
Before starting a search, it is important to honestly think about one’s personal priorities in terms of job type and location and to look at university websites, the American Academy of Ophthalmology website and specialty society websites.
“One of my mentors, Prof. Nicholas J. Volpe, said that the best academic jobs are those which are not posted. It is important to use all your connections from medical school, residency and fellowship to know what is available,” Cohen said.
The time span from first emails sent to the university to being confirmed in a position is about 1 year, and the process will entail Zoom or phone interviews, in-person interviews and site visits.
“Initial interviews are very low stakes. Do as many as you like. They are an opportunity to hear about the position and what need they are trying to fill. In-person interviews often occur at the annual AAO meeting,” Cohen said. “Once you receive an offer, don’t be afraid to negotiate, compare offers and choose the right one for you.”
This process takes a lot of work, weighing the pros and cons of different opportunities and asking mentors for guidance. But at the end of the day, “go with your gut feelings,” Cohen said.
“Prof. Volpe said there is no such thing as a perfect first job. Some aspects may not be ideal but think big picture: Will this opportunity get me to where I want to be in 5 years?” she said.
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Cohen LM. Tips for finding and excelling in your first job in academic practice. Presented at: Real World Ophthalmology; April 2, 2022 (virtual meeting).
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