Tales from the Trenches: Career Growth in Biotechnology

Building a successful career in the biotechnology industry is really just a series of transitions from one role to another. But the devil is in the details—when to make a change, how to create opportunities and who can be your champion as you pivot. So how do you navigate these factors to keep your career […]

PhDs: From Distressing to De-Stressing

When I searched for the origin of the word “stress”, I found that it is partially taken from an old French word “estresse”, that is narrowness and oppression. If I add the word “PhD” along with “stress”, hundreds if not thousands of articles, blogs and surveys pop-up discussing the effect of stress on PhD students. […]

5 Things to Stop Apologizing For

We’ve all been there. You’re at work but can only focus on how and when you’re going to fix the water heater that broke this morning. You rush home to tackle that problem, but you find that you can’t leave work at the lab. A quick search on the internet for the term ‘work-life balance’ […]

What Advice Do You Have For Those Just Starting Out in Forensics?

Maybe you’ve just graduated and are looking for your first job in forensics, or maybe you’re just starting work as an analyst. Either way, trying to find your footing can be tough. That’s why we’ve asked our ISHI 30 speakers to share some pearls of wisdom for those just starting out in the field of […]

Introducing the ISHI Ambassadors

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the International Symposium on Human Identification. Much has changed since the first gathering in 1989 when the field was in its infancy. Throughout this anniversary year, we’ll be celebrating the men and women who perform the demanding but crucial work of the forensic scientist, as well as exploring […]

Networking for Introverts at ISHI

Networking for Introverts

Ah networking; has there ever been a topic that was more polarizing? Well, yeah, there are a few others that come to mind, but if you’re an introvert, this one is definitely on the list. Introverts the world over know why they should network, but they also know the joy that comes from calling it […]

Ok, I’ve Got My Degree, Now What?

Ok, I've Got My Degree, Now What?

Years ago, when I was in graduate school studying molecular biology, many of my professors seemed to place a lot of value on the traditional career path: several years of post-doctoral fellowships, followed by a career as a tenured faculty member at a big academic institution, with teaching responsibilities and a laboratory, post-doctoral fellows and students. At […]

Entry-Level Coaching Inspires a Winning Culture

Entry Level Coaching Inspires a Winning Culture

The first three years of a young forensic scientist’s career matter greatly.   More personal and professional transformation occurs during this time than perhaps any other.  It sets the tone for the scientist’s life in the laboratory by establishing attitudes that will either expand or deflate her/his potential to be a high performer.   Whenever […]

When Did We Stop Asking Why?

“C’mon honey, it’s time to put on your shoes.” “Why?” “Because it’s time to get going.” “Why?” “Because we have an appointment in 20 minutes.” “Why?” “Because that’s the time that worked best in my schedule.” “Why?” “Because I had meetings this morning.” “Why?” “Because that’s when they were scheduled for.”   I’ll bet you […]