There is no one path to an academic career, writes Esther Cooke at Nature Jobs.
Additionally, not all academic jobs include research and not all of them include teaching, though many people search for a position that includes both. That means, though, being able to balance the two. And some academic positions include a bit of the business world.
"The key to satisfaction is to find what works for you," Cooke says. "Figure out your priorities and think about which aspects of your work you enjoy the most."
Speakers at a Nature Jobs-hosted workshop also stress the importance of finding a mentor, being resilient, and taking opportunities that present themselves as well as seeking new ones out.
"There is plenty of scope to shape your career to fit your needs, if you have the vision to do so," Cooke adds.