Decoding Academia: Research vs. Non-Research Universities

Did you know that your experience as a public health professor can differ significantly depending on whether you teach at a research-based or teaching-focused institution? Our panelists broke down these differences to help you find the right fit for your career.

Key Highlights:

  • Research-Based Universities: These roles often prioritize publishing, securing grants, and mentoring graduate students. Panelists emphasized the importance of developing a strong research portfolio and actively pursuing grant opportunities.

  • Teaching-Focused Institutions: Here, the emphasis is on curriculum development and student interaction. Panelists shared that these roles require innovative teaching strategies and a passion for mentoring undergraduates.

  • Balancing Act: For those interested in a hybrid approach, panelists discussed how some institutions allow faculty to split their time between teaching and research. Time management and prioritization skills were highlighted as critical for success.

Action Steps:

  1. Identify which type of institution aligns with your career goals. Consider factors like workload, research interests, and long-term aspirations.

  2. Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience for each setting. For research institutions, include publications and grants; for teaching-focused roles, emphasize instructional experience and student feedback.

  3. Reach out to professors currently working at these institutions to gain insights into their daily responsibilities and challenges.

Catch the full discussion and get personalized guidance in our on-demand video. Click Here to Join the Public Health Club.

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How to Build Your Technical Skill Set for a Data & Epidemiology Career