“Moonlighting: Dip your toes,” an Article Review

By: Zakiya Qualls

With the fear of an academic career that leads to the dreaded “perpetual post-doc syndrome,” increased competition in finding funding sources, and the loom of low pay with long hours, we have all asked the same questions: Should I stay in academia when I graduate?  Where do I start first? Can I explore other options without giving up my academic career? How do I know I’m on the right path? According to an article written by Amy Maxmen and published in Nature, graduate students and other early career academics (eg. post-doc, fellows) should at least consider “moonlighting,” or exploring other career options while still working at the bench. By doing this, not only are you able to build experience in a new career possibility, but you will also either confirm your choice to leave academia, or realize that academia actually is a perfect fit before it is too late! Let’s briefly summarize and discuss the key points of the article:

1. Tenure-track positions are becoming increasingly harder to obtain. Preparing for other career options is key.

The article starts by stating the unsettling truths. Less than 15% of those that obtain a biological doctorate in the United States go on to obtain tenure-track positions. This figure is drastically different from the stats of just 40 years ago when 55% of biomedical PhDs could look forward to achieving tenure-track within 6 years of graduation. We are in a completely different scientific world now and have different decisions to make about our careers than our advisors did. Dr. Maxmen asserts that “researchers who want to explore different options need not wait until they have finished their PhD or completed a postdoc or contract position.” These options can be explored by taking additional courses, completing an internship, earning another degree, or even by starting a start-up.

2. Have a conversation with your PI. Moonlighting will most likely be noticed.

That being said, Dr. Maxmen stresses the importance of having a conversation with your PI, so that at the very least he/she can understand your perspective, goals, and any changes in schedule. The article cites examples when this has been beneficial for students, but also warns of the potential negative feedback one might receive from an unsupportive PI. Therefore, you must thoroughly research the lab you wish to join and try to determine if a PI’s personality is suitable with your end goals. For more on this topic, see our recent blog post entitled “Choosing a thesis advisor: Choose wisely and avoid years of tears in graduate school.”

3. The balancing act: Finding extra time to moonlight may come at a price. For some, total immersion may be the best route.

As a graduate student or post-doc, you are already busy, often times working upwards of 60 hours a week! Finding time to moonlight can often put a strain on other important happenings in your life, especially if you have a spouse and/or children. The article emphasizes that efficiency is key and states that researchers who have successfully managed the extra workloads did so by following a strict daily schedule. Anything that does not contribute to your research or career goals should be cut out. This includes social media, phone calls, and TV. It should be noted that most who report being committed to a side pursuit say that they sacrifice their social life for a period of time. The good news, however, is that this is only temporary and the extra effort will pay off in the long run. For those easily overwhelmed, Dr. Maxmen suggests totally immerging yourself in your side passion for a short time. Taking a leave of absence, or devoting one day a week to your pursuit is something to consider if you have the proper support and permission.

4. No Regrets: Keeping the big picture in mind.

While moonlighting presents several benefits, do keep in mind that it will often times result in fewer publications than those who focused solely on bench work. However, scientists who successfully transitioned state that this never worried them since they knew publications would not matter in the long run. Dr. Maxmen ends by reminding us all that looking elsewhere is not cheating and that you must take control over your own life.

This article personally resonated with my current plight. I am balancing bench work, paper writing, and family life all while trying to establish myself as a medical writer by taking additional courses and earning professional certificates that will hopefully set me apart from other candidates. Additionally, the time and dedication required to start my own business has been massive to say the least. However, by dedicating this effort to my future, I feel better prepared for life after defending and I hope to make a smooth transition without major gaps in income. I think the advice presented in the article is very sound, but ultimately you know what is best for you. My advice is to follow your instincts. You know if you can handle the extra workload and you have an idea of whether your PI will be supportive of your decision or not. Overall, I suggest starting the moonlighting process as early as possible in your graduate career. This will give you time to slowly explore options and hopefully conclude early enough that you can switch your focus back to publishing, publishing, and publishing if an academic career is truly your calling.

What are your thoughts? What factors have influenced you to try moonlighting while still pursuing bench research? Do you have a personal story? Please share any advice or tips with your fellow moonlighters below.