Doctoral programs in animal science: Strategies for targeting academic careers

Abstract Text: Objectives of this review are to discuss successful doctoral student professional development strategies for targeting academic positions in the animal sciences and related fields. Entry level positions for academic careers are most often 2-way split appointments containing proportions of research, teaching, and extension responsibilities. Occasionally, institutions will offer 1 or 3-way split appointments. Positions will usually range from 9 to 12 month appointments on a tenure-track, though variations exist. Successfully targeting these types of career positions requires deliberate planning and action by the doctoral student and mentoring team. Carefully selecting an advisor, institution, doctoral training committee, and other mentoring and training structures are essential early components in the process. Research experiences need to contain both discovery and application based aspects, present opportunities for leadership and collaborative team efforts, be solid in experimental design and methodologies, demonstrate focus in targeted areas, and breadth across species, mechanisms, methods, and systems. Data should be published in multiple venues, including refereed manuscripts. Mentoring and training in teaching at the university level needs to be real and relevant. Experience in formal and informal aspects of teaching are needed and should be supported with both student and peer teaching evaluations when possible. Mentoring in extension needs to include significant clientele contact, evidence of proficiency with a breadth of communication techniques, and clear goals and assessments. Effective training in perusing and securing grant funds to support research, teaching, and extension activities should be evident. Leadership, collaborative skills, and professionalism should be developed and effectively demonstrated. Evidence of effectively managing research teams, mentoring undergraduate students, and overseeing undergraduate research projects helps demonstrate preparedness for the transition from doctoral student to assistant professor. Strategically targeting and successfully accomplishing specific professional development activities within research, teaching, and extension will foster excellence and help secure effective and successful academic careers in animal sciences and related fields.

Keywords:  academic careers, doctoral programs, professional development strategies