Category Careers, Interviews & Professional Development

Reading Time: 4 minutesCareers in research are often portrayed as intellectually rewarding and socially impactful. Scientists contribute to innovation, expand human knowledge, and influence policy, healthcare, and technology. Yet behind major discoveries lies a less visible reality: research careers are rarely linear. Progress is frequently interrupted by funding shortages, rejected papers, failed experiments, and uncertain employment prospects. Unlike […]

Reading Time: 3 minutesScientific careers are intellectually rewarding but structurally complex. From undergraduate research to postdoctoral fellowships, faculty positions, industry R&D, and policy roles, each stage requires new skills, strategic decisions, and professional networks. While formal education provides technical knowledge, it rarely teaches researchers how to navigate the unwritten rules of career progression. This is where mentorship becomes […]

Reading Time: 3 minutesInterviews in scientific fields differ significantly from interviews in many other professions. Employers and principal investigators are not only assessing communication skills and cultural fit; they are evaluating technical depth, problem-solving ability, ethical awareness, and the capacity to conduct rigorous, reproducible work. Whether you are applying for a laboratory position, a research assistant role, a […]

Reading Time: 5 minutesEarly-career scientists often enter research with a clear focus: learn the methods, run experiments, analyze data, and publish results. But scientific careers are shaped by far more than technical competence. Unwritten norms, incentive structures, mentorship dynamics, and long timelines can make it easy to drift into choices that feel productive in the moment but slow […]

Reading Time: 3 minutesAs a graduate student, developing a strong research CV (curriculum vitae) is one of the most important steps you can take toward advancing your academic and professional goals. A well‑crafted CV helps you apply for fellowships, scholarships, internships, PhD programs, postdoctoral positions, and research collaborations. This guide will walk you through the essential elements of […]

Reading Time: 3 minutesChemical & Engineering News (C&EN) stands as a cornerstone of communication for scientists, engineers, educators, and industry professionals interested in chemistry and chemical engineering. Among its many features, the commentary section — often referred to as ACS Comments or simply “Comment” — plays a special role in connecting readers with thoughtful perspectives, community insights, and […]

Reading Time: 3 minutesIn today’s fast‑moving scientific workforce, staying connected with the right career opportunities is essential — especially in fields such as chemistry, chemical engineering, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and laboratory sciences. C&EN Jobs, a dedicated career portal powered by Chemical & Engineering News and the American Chemical Society (ACS), has become a key hub for professionals and organizations […]

Reading Time: 3 minutesAs a graduate student, your Curriculum Vitae (CV) is more than just a document — it is a strategic tool that showcases your academic journey, research experience, and potential as a scholar. A strong research CV can open doors to funding opportunities, internships, fellowships, PhD programs, and even industry positions. This guide walks you through […]

Reading Time: 3 minutesFor many scientists, academic research is the starting point of a career — but not always the final destination. Increasingly, researchers are choosing to move from academia into industry in search of stability, applied impact, and new professional challenges. While this transition can feel intimidating, it is entirely achievable with the right mindset, preparation, and […]

Reading Time: 3 minutesAs the chemical industry continues to evolve — embracing green technologies, digital transformation, and global markets — hiring standards are also shifting. Whether you’re a recent graduate or an experienced chemist seeking new opportunities, understanding what recruiters really look for can set you apart. This article explores the key skills, experiences, and attitudes that hiring […]