Key Takeaways from Harvard Griffin GSAS Alumni Panel
By Caroline Rende
What does it really take to launch a career outside academia? At a recent panel I hosted, several PhD-trained professionals shared unfiltered insights about their journeys, struggles, and the surprising lessons they learned along the way. Our panel, moderated by Dr. Vivien Chung (Anthropology) – Harvard’s Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, included:
- Dr. Maximilian Baas-Thomas (Genetics & Genomics) – Envoya, Inc.
- Shandra Jones (PhD Candidate, Education) – Self-Help
- Dr. Tasha Schoenstein (History of Science) – Keystone AI
- Dr. Iryna Stryapunina (Virology) – Cantor Fitzgerald
- Kevin Troy (PhD Candidate, Government) – Anthropic
If you missed the conversation, here are the major takeaways:
1. Career serendipity is real (but you must be open to it)
One speaker recalled bumping into a college friend who was working at a tiny AI startup. That startup? Anthropic. This unplanned conversation helped spark a shift in their career thinking. “It wasn’t about being proactive at that moment,” they shared. “It was about being receptive.”
The takeaway? Career shifts can start with unexpected moments. Stay curious, follow your instincts, and talk to people. We recommend you engage with MCS even before you think you need us.
2. Engage with career resources early and often
Several panelists emphasized that showing up to career events—even before knowing exactly what you’re looking for—is powerful. One participant attended everything from faculty job search panels to innovation hubs and talks in different departments. This proactive exposure helped them understand the language, rhythms, and expectations of various career paths. “The informal conversations—that’s where the magic happens,” said one speaker. “It’s not just about the ‘what’ of your skills, but ‘where else’ they could take you.”
3. Translate your PhD into industry language
Many emphasized the need to reframe academic work for a non-academic audience. One panelist, now working in venture capital, explained how their research and writing experience—particularly translating technical science for broad audiences—was a cornerstone skill.
“The dissertation taught me to communicate clearly between technical and non-technical audiences,” they said. Another panelist shared how they drew from qualitative research skills to design entirely new systems in their current role—something they hadn’t envisioned while pursuing their PhD.
4. Transferable skills that matter most
Several panelists reflected on the skills they use daily:
- Synthesizing large amounts of technical information quickly
- Communicating clearly with varied audiences
- Project management and stakeholder coordination
- Data visualization and performance optimization
- Evaluating systems and proposing improvements
Don’t underestimate the value of these capabilities—and be prepared to articulate these skills clearly in a way that resonates with employers. If it feels challenging to define and communicate your skills, we can help you take inventory of the talents you’ve built and honed throughout graduate school. Lean on us in graduate career advising to conduct a self-assessment.
5. The job market is tough—but you are not alone
The biotech sector, as one example, has faced significant changes. One speaker described 2025 as “a year of high hopes that didn’t pan out,” with volatility in funding and regulatory processes.
“It’s not you—it’s the market,” emphasized a panelist who networked consistently and endured hundreds of applications in 13 months before landing their role. Constant rejection can shake your confidence but remember it’s not a reflection on you personally. Build community during this time—especially with those who understand the grind.
6. Redefine success, and be open to surprise
One panelist shared how they had to reset their identity after the PhD. “What I’m doing now looks nothing like what I expected. But it meets all my core goals—and that’s what matters.”
Another added: “Be more creative and flexible. You might surprise yourself where you end up.”
7. Networking is a practice, not a transaction
Treat networking as a rehearsal for interviews and a window into industry thinking. Some practical tips:
- Prepare a one-pager outlining your background and questions in advance.
- Ask what people are reading or listening to in the field—it can open new learning paths.
- Follow up with gratitude and demonstrate how their advice helped you (it’s a great way to keep relationships alive).
Want more support?
Whether you’re just starting to explore non-academic careers or you’re deep in your search, MCS is here for you. Schedule a one-on-one appointment, join our upcoming workshops, and connect with alumni who’ve been exactly where you are. We highly recommend connecting with alumni through Firsthand Advisors. You don’t have to figure it out alone—and you never know where one conversation might lead.
