Returning to a science career

[nammynake]

Mods - please leave this here. I originally posted in the Jobs forum but had little response.

I have worked in Credit Risk (retail banking) for 7 years since graduating with a PhD in Astrophysics. Prior to that I did a degree in Physics. Over the last couple of years I have grown increasingly frustrated at the politics involved and the lack of opportunities to really stretch myself technically.

I find myself scanning science job sites for interesting vacancies that are local. I don't want to go back to academia, and having such a long break I don't think I would stand a chance anyway, so I'm looking more at the private sector.

Has anyone here returned to science following either a career break or other career? I'd be interested to hear your thoughts. I am preparing myself for a significant pay cut should I move, but the thought of staying in banking until I retire brings me out in a cold sweat!

[Zad]

A lot will probably depend on what part of the country you are in, and what part of science you want to go into. Not wanting to go into academia must surely limit your options quite a lot at the doctoral level.

[Moonhawk]

Zad said:

Not wanting to go into academia must surely limit your options quite a lot at the doctoral level.

Not really - many pharma companies have significant PhD graduate intake.

One thing I will say to the OP though......working in a scientific discipline (especially in the private sector) isn't without it's own set of problems. If your aim is to escape cut throat behaviour, backstabbing, office politics etc (as your OP seems to indicate might be the case) - going back into science as a career may not deliver your nirvana. If you are looking for advancement - the same caveats apply. Most private sector companies have a glass ceiling for scientific careers. To really get on, even within a company based on science - you have to take the "management" route.

Edited by Moonhawk on Saturday 9th November 22:54

[tapkaJohnD]

I used to wonder what all the people with degrees in astrophysics did, until I was told they went into banking. But that trade no longer needs the same facility with astronomical figures, becasue the ame bonuses aren't paid - allegedly.

Have you thought about retraining, to a more 'trade' related subject? Your ability with numbers might equip you for accountancy or insurance. Or a more 'human' field, such as medicine? All involve several years of study, but you are (probably) young enough to make it worthwhile.

John