Conversations

Dr. Jia Ng is a Board-Certified Nephrologist and Clinical Epidemiologist whose research is focused on improving the outcomes of individuals who acute kidney injury in the hospital. Dr. Ng also conducts academic writing and research workshops for clinicians and provides coaching/consulting for clinicians who want to achieve their academic goals.In this episode, Dr. Ng discusses the importance of creating structure to support our writing. Specifically, she sheds light on the following insights. ...

It is never too early to become a research mentor. In this episode, we explore the transformative power of becoming a mentor early in your career.Key Points Discussed: Acknowledge your own knowledge and expertise. You have more to offer than you might think. Becoming a mentor helps you become a better listener. Humility is key. Provide constructive feedback instead of destructive criticism. Set clear expectations for the mentor-mentee relationship. Encourage independence and critical thinkin...

Sometimes, it can feel as if finding a research mentor is the end of the journey. Unfortunately, it is only the beginning of your hard work. In this episode we explore how your role as a mentee is critical in shaping your experience. Key Points Discussed: The importance of taking ownership of your mentoring relationship. The significance of clear career objectives. The value of honest, open communication. The role of proactive participation. The power of gratitude. Links and Resources Menti...

While it may seem as if someone more knowledgeable should be in charge of your career, the best person for the job will always be you. In this episode, we discuss the importance of taking ownership of your career.Key Points Discussed: Personal Responsibility: While mentors can provide guidance and support, the ultimate direction and success of your career rest in your hands. Self-Direction: You are the captain of your career journey. Adaptability and Resilience: Taking ownership equips you to ...

Because we love to do so much, it is hard to focus on just one thing. In this episode, we explore the advantages of maintaining a research focus. We also discuss the value of concentrating on a specific research area.Key Points Discussed: Depth of Expertise: Becoming an expert in a focused area simplifies the process of generating new ideas and understanding gaps in the field. Clarity of Goals: Research focus brings clarity. It makes it easier to set and communicate clear research goals. Incre...

Dr. Peslak is a physician-scientist and Assistant Professor of Medicine. A classical hematologist, Dr. Peslak investigates new genetic and pharmacologic therapies for the treatment of sickle cell disease. In this episode, Dr. Peslak shares insights into classical hematology. He emphasizes the critical role of mentorship in shaping future research leaders. Key Points Discussed: The importance of early exposure and experiences. Coping with moments of doubt and uncertainty. The pivotal ro...

Dr. Stella Chou is a distinguished clinician scientist specializing in pediatric hematology and transfusion medicine. In today's episode, Dr. Chou shares her remarkable journey to become a clinician scientist. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and seizing opportunities for research collaboration. Key Points Discussed: Dr. Chou's research interests in pediatric hematology and transfusion medicine. The influence of family on her attitude toward seizing opportunities. The signi...

Dr. Cruz is a psychiatrist who works to improve the mental health of children and adolescents. With a global platform for her research, she develops mental health resources for resource-limited settings. Through her independent research program, Dr. Cruz brings mental health resources to schools. By creating, pilot-testing, and scaling a task-shifting mental health intervention for school-aged children, Dr. Cruz has developed strategies to use “education as mental health therapy”.On this episode...

Dr. Bloomfield is an Associate Professor of Medicine with Tenure in the Division of Cardiology and Associate Research Professor of Global Health at the Duke Global Health Institute. In this episode, Dr. Bloomfield discusses the evolving landscape of global health, opportunities for global health research involvement, and the importance of building meaningful research partnerships. Key Points Discussed: Global health research and its evolving focus on addressing health disparities. Experie...

Dr. Paralkar is a physician-scientist at the University of Pennsylvania. His clinical focus is on myeloid malignancies. His laboratory studies how transcription factors and chromatin proteins regulate coding gene transcription and ribosome biogenesis in normal and leukemic hematopoiesis.In this enlightening episode, Dr. Paralkar explores the unique challenges and opportunities faced by aspiring physician-scientists.Key Points Discussed: The importance of embracing flexibility and adaptability i...

Dr. Julia Warren is a pediatric hematologist at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine. Her laboratory studies normal and malignant blood cell formation, with a special interest in neutrophils.In this engaging episode, Julia shares her insights, experiences, and advice for those navigating the challenges and rewards of a unique career path as a physician scientist. Key Points Discussed: Pa...

When you find yourself in a bind, you may need to create your own opportunities. Even when faced with challenges, you can build what you wish to see. In this episode, we talk about the importance of becoming a magnet to attract like-minded individuals who can help you succeed. Key Points Discussed: Define Your Core Values: Begin by clarifying your personal and professional values. Understand who you are, what you stand for, and what drives you. Authenticity Matters: In all aspects of your acad...

In academia, starting a faculty career is an important milestone. In today's episode, we discuss preparing to negotiate your first faculty position. We will explore essential strategies and considerations to ensure informed decisions. Key Points Discussed: Give Yourself Enough Time: Allow sufficient time for decision-making. Take time to reflect and plan. Clarify How to Split Your Time: Faculty members must balance clinical work, research, and education. To help set clear goals, decide which ...

The Facilities and Resources document is an important, but often overlooked, aspect of grant applications. In this episode, discover the key elements needed to create this document. And learn how it can significantly impact your chances of grant success.Key Points Discussed: Understanding the Facilities and Resources Document: Learn about the significance of the Facilities and Resources document in grant applications and its role in showcasing institutional support for research. Tailoring Your ...

A critical component of many grant applications is the NIH Biosketch. When you have never created one before, the Biosketch can be daunting. Yet, a well-crafted Biosketch can significantly impact your competitiveness for research funding. In this episode, we discuss Biosketch best practices. Key Points Discussed: The importance of creating the first draft and iterating over many applications. The need to tailor your Biosketch to the specific grant opportunity. The importance of telling a comp...

Dr. Xu is an adult hematologist specializing in the care of patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). She has conducted studies of the trajectory of renal function decline in SCD and led clinical trials evaluating novel drug therapies for the treatment of patients with SCD. She has a longstanding interest in both red cell disorders and global health, having completed combined internal medicine-global health residency training and a Master of Science in Global health degree.In today's episode, Dr....

Any chance you are tired of saying yes? In this episode, we explore the importance of saying "yes" with genuine intention and conviction. To find the spark to build a fulfilling career, let's align our actions with our true convictions.Key Points Discussed: Say "Yes" with Meaning: Say "yes" only when it aligns with your true intentions. Say "Yes" with Conviction: Say "yes" with thoughtful consideration of the challenges and benefits. Exploring Weak "Yes": If you find yourself struggling to say...

In this episode, we delve into the concept of saying "yes" and how it impacts our lives as clinicians and researchers. We explore the significance of understanding that every "yes" involves saying "no" to something else due to our finite resources. We'll discuss the importance of being mindful about our choices and offer insights into why saying "yes" can be a powerful and transformative decision.Key Points Discussed:The Duality of Yes and No: Every "yes" implies saying "no" to something else. E...

We figured out that we need to say, "no." But, how exactly do you do it? In this episode, we discuss the art of saying "no" effectively. Listen in for valuable insights on how to say "no." We also provides practical tips for doing it gracefully. Key Points Discussed: Understand the concept of "no" and how it relates to your bigger "yes." To protect your valuable time, identify your priorities . In your decision-making, explore the role of a "no committee." To make thoughtful decisions, creat...

It can be difficult to say "no." However, as a clinician scientist, "no" may be the most important word in your vocabulary. On today's episode, we discuss this two-letter word's profound impact. We also discuss how embracing "no" can lead to positive outcomes in both your academic career and personal life.Key Points Discussed: No as Yes: When you say "no," you are simultaneously saying "yes" to something else. Understanding this duality is key to effective decision-making. Allocating Time Effic...

Dr. Peter Kurre is a renowned clinician scientist at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. His clinical work is focused on children with bone marrow failure across a wide spectrum of inherited and acquired conditions that lead to loss of blood formation. Dr. Kurre's clinical interests focus on diagnosis and treatment of bone marrow failure, specifically on improving diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. In this episode, Dr. Kurre shares his remarkable insights and experiences, providing va...

The post-doctoral fellowship is the optimal time for clinicians to undergo research training. However, most fellows do not know how to make the best use of this time. In this episode, we shed light on the pivotal steps fellows can take to use their fellowship time strategically.Key Points Discussed: Use Your Fellowship Time Strategically: The importance of setting clear goals during your fellowship and having a sense of direction in your research endeavors. Think Carefully About Opportunities: ...

If you are thinking it is too late to start your research career, think again. For clinicians looking to start a research program, today is the day to begin. In this episode, we explore the essential steps for clinicians looking to make the transition into research. Key Points Discussed:Own Your Strengths: The importance of recognizing and leveraging clinical expertise as a foundational element for a successful research program. Evaluate Your Needs: Think critically about what you have and the ...

What do you do when you can't secure funding for your project? It can be disheartening when your research hits a financial roadblock. In this episode, we explore five crucial questions to ask yourself when faced with this challenge.Key Points Discussed:Whose Idea Are You Selling? - Make sure the research idea you're pursuing is genuinely your own. Selling someone else's dream can be challenging. So, take time to align your passion with your research topic. Would You Fund Your Work? - Look at yo...