<p>some comments on family friendly environments of industry versus academia (at least in the sciences):
- my friends in big pharma and biotech often lament the lack of schedule flexibility, while academics can schedule mornings, evenings, days off pretty much at will to be with family. However, the postponed work still needs to be accomplished at some other time.</p>
<p>2) I recommend to all my students and fellows who enter big pharma and biotech to aggressively save at least 1/3 their salaries because their jobs are not secure and can be eliminated (often without “golden parachutes” and sometimes with immediate pay cessation) at a moments notice due to many factors. It is not uncommon (even in good economies) to take 6 months to find an appropriate and worthwhile position following being laid off.</p>
<p>3) most careers offering the ability to substantially control your path and choices require some decree of passion and commitment. Academia is an outstanding and family friendly career for someone passionate and able to complete projects, but it requires a high degree of commitment (time and focus) </p>
<p>4) Academia is a very poor choice for someone who approaches their research careers as “mere jobs”. In academia you are competing against a group of individuals who are passionate and dedicated about advancing the field and who find substantial reward in the performance of their research. For example, in my field, we often say that if you’re not internally compelled to do research, this isn’t the lifestyle for you. But if it is, it is a fabulous lifestyle.</p>
<p>So in sum…
Academia and a life pursuing research is definitely not for everyone, but is incredibly flexible and rewarding for some.</p>