Vanderford Featured in New Issue of Science

LEXINGTON, Ky. (July 22, 2016) – In a commentary published in the July 22 issue of Science, Nathan Vanderford, assistant director for research at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center, describes his path to landing a nontraditional faculty position at UK. Science is one of the world’s most prestigious research journals.

Many new doctorate recipients are unaware of their nontraditional career options and of the challenges they may face when pursuing them. Vanderford, who applied for dozens of non-research jobs after earning his doctorate, knows this all too well. In his commentary, he recounts some of the obstacles he encountered during his own job search, and the realization that helped him to ultimately attain the position he holds today.

In 2009, Vanderford secured his initial opportunity at the Markey Cancer Center as a science writer and editor and, from there, he took on leadership roles that contributed to his transition into a unique tenure-track faculty position. Along the way, he made it a personal goal to help other scientists learn what some never do.

“It's important for the science community, and especially the trainees in the community, to understand all the career options available to Ph.D.s," Vanderford said. "Too often, Ph.D.s think it's a straight shot between training and landing a job, but there's usually a lot of twists and turns. If they remain vigilant, they can build rewarding careers in many different fields.”

Media Contact: Allison Perry, allison.perry@uky.edu