AWIS Career Center
Transitioning From Academia To Industry
Discover where your academic experience can take you.
AWIS resources can help you transition to an industry career
Transitioning from academia to industry can feel like a big step, but your skills and experience are more valuable than you may realize. Whether you’re exploring career options, translating your research experience, or preparing for your first industry role, the right guidance can help you make a successful transition.
We have gathered our top resources below to support you.
AWIS Members:
We hope these member-exclusive resources help you confidently navigate your transition from academia to industry. If you have feedback, suggestions, or need assistance accessing your member benefits, email us at awis@awis.org.
Non-members:
Ready to explore opportunities beyond academia? Join AWIS for exclusive career transition resources, professional development webinars, expert guidance, and a supportive community to help you succeed in industry. Questions about membership? Contact awis@awis.org.
Check out this webinar in our on-demand library:
From Ivory Tower to Industry Power (November 21, 2024) Transitioning from academia to industry can feel like stepping into a new world, full of fresh opportunities, but also unique challenges. In this presentation, Dr. Megan Wilkerson explores how to leverage your academic skills and mindset in the fast-paced, results-driven environment of industry.
Coming Soon...
How to Successfully Pivot from Academia to Industry (October 8, 2026) Transitioning from academia to industry comes with unique challenges, but your research experience can be one of your greatest strengths. In this session, Dr. Hojeong Kim shares practical strategies to help scientists translate their academic experience, communicate their value, and successfully navigate the move into industry.
Articles from the Nucleus:
Find guidance:
- Navigating Careers Outside of Traditional Academia (April 10, 2026) AWIS member Bushra Zaman speaks with science communicator Dr. Chloe Kirk on navigating different career options.
- How to Navigate the Switch from Academia to Industry (January 6, 2023) If you are contemplating a career change from academia to industry, consider these tips from Dr. Georgina Salazar to help guide your decision.
- Great Resignation in Academia (May 15, 2024) Dissatisfaction among early-career and mid-career researchers has always been apparent, but the pandemic was the final nail in the coffin.
- How Do University-Industry Partnerships Drive Innovation in STEM training? (01/30/2026) Partnerships between universities and industry benefit the universities, industries, and especially students, by supporting their interest in STEM and providing them with the tools to successfully navigate STEM careers.
Get inspired:
- How I Left the Lab Bench and Learned to Flourish (July 2, 2024) Taking calculated risks has been a big part of Dr. Indira Carey’s story, with many ups and downs. These experiences made her who she is today.
- Academia or Industry: A False Dichotomy (August 22, 2022) Dr. Ester Caffarel-Salvador’s path as a multidisciplinary scientist taught her that you don’t have to choose between academia or industry when deciding how to shape your STEM journey.
- Leaning into Career Twists and Turns: How a Nerdy Academic Became a Leader in the Cannabis Industry (12/05/2022) Dr. Tess Eidem shares her transition from a 30-year academic environment to an entrepreneurial career working with cannabis.
Other tips:
- Find and connect with over academics who have successfully transferred to industry.
- Share and comment on LinkedIn posts to gain visibility and grow your network.
- Volunteer on a committee to develop new skills.
- Search the Nucleus for stories of women succeeding in various STEM careers.
- Explore more potential careers on the Summer of Science page.