What does it take to succeed in science? Prof Jan Rehwinkel shares insights on career choices, scientific independence, mentorship, overcoming rejection, and navigating the changing world of science in the age of AI.
What does it really take to build a successful career in science? Is it intelligence, hard work, making the right decisions, or simply being lucky? And with artificial intelligence rapidly transforming scientific research, will the same rules still apply?
In this episode of Immunity by Design, Professor Hashem Koohy is joined by Professor Jan Rehwinkel from the University of Oxford for an insightful conversation about the opportunities, challenges and decisions that shape scientific careers, from PhD student to independent researcher and beyond.
Drawing on his own scientific journey and extensive experience mentoring young scientists, Jan shares practical advice on choosing the right PhD and postdoctoral opportunities, making meaningful scientific discoveries, developing research independence, and navigating the transition to becoming a principal investigator (PI).
The conversation also explores the less visible challenges of academic life, including unwritten rules, building successful research teams, securing funding, dealing with rejection, and the importance of supportive mentors and research environments.
Looking towards the future, they discuss how AI may reshape scientific careers, whether AI-powered researchers could replace human scientists, and why critical thinking, curiosity and human collaboration remain essential to scientific discovery.
Finally, Jan reflects on the role of luck, persistence and opportunity in scientific success, challenging the idea that becoming a professor is the only measure of a successful career in science.
An engaging and practical conversation for PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, early-career group leaders, and anyone interested in building a fulfilling career in science and technology.
About Immunity by Design
Immunity by Design is a podcast exploring the intersection of immunology, artificial intelligence, data science,
biotechnology, and medicine. Each episode features leading scientists and innovators discussing the discoveries,
technologies, and ideas that are shaping the future of human health.
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