As You Start a Career in Academic Medicine: Priming for Success

Abstract

After finishing a residency or a fellowship in ophthalmology, as in other specialties of medicine, one can choose either a career in academic medicine or private practice. While some aspects of starting a new position in both tracks are similar, other aspects can differ significantly. For instance, the job search for both tracks may be affected by available positions that year, location, family situation, and salary. Both tracks will require dedication, time, and continued learning and improvement of our skills as physicians. On the other hand, those seeking the academic medicine track will have unique considerations such as research and teaching opportunities, academically supportive environment, and needs of a subspecialist, among others. Academic medicine is not for everyone. One needs to work as a part of a large organization, often with rigid structure and many rules and regulations and is affected by other departments and other organizational issues that are outside of your control. However, for those who choose to pursue it, there can be immense reward, satisfaction, and opportunities. This chapter focuses on successfully starting out an academic career. It includes tasks to consider even before starting a job search, including introspection of self as well as goal setting of one’s career. We will review aspects to consider such as negotiation, finding mentors, knowing promotion process, asking for protected time for academic endeavors, and prioritizing self-care and family life. Above all else, know that we are blessed to be in a profession that allows many options, to have fun while helping others, educating the future generations, and contributing to the growth of our field.