The theory

There is a constant tension between change and routine, and in the context of an academic career it is perhaps most visible during the transition from postdoc to PI. Before we turn to the practicalities of doing well during this period, it is worthwhile considering the wider background. Life is change – stars are born, live and die on such a long timescale that humans cannot even imagine, and at the other end of the scale processes in living cells occur over nanoseconds. However, as the popular saying goes, ‘only busy cashiers and wet babies like change’. Change unsettles us and our biological reaction is of the ‘fight or flight’ type. But change also brings renewal and opportunities, and in a professional environment, if it is tackled well, it can strengthen your career prospects for years to come.

As seen in Chapters 8 and 9, you can start your independent research career either in the context of an academic job or as an independent research fellow. Although the two positions carry different duties and expectations, they share one thing in common – time has to be managed differently from when you were a postdoc. While many postdocs work very hard, they often work at hours to suit themselves (certainly not 9–5). However, as a PI you have to fit in with other people – either in the context of time-tabled lectures and meetings or to oversee the work of your research group.