Hi, I am postdoctoral scientist with a BSc., MSci and PhD at top places, with top grades and a very significant publication list in the top journals. I am primiarily trained in Genetics/Molecular Biology and have worked most of my scientific career in Neurobiology/Neuroscience. I am 28 and married. I have the growing feeling of being unfulfilled with science and would like to direct my energy to new career directions in which I can apply my knowledge and skills and have fast-paced and business-oriented responsabilities. I have heard a lot about consulting and about fellow scientists taking that path. I am although unsure about where to start, what kind of position to look for, what kind of company to look for and what are the emerging areas in this business? Can anybody help????? Thanks. Jorge.

What can a life scientist do? Although that neuroscience could come in handy at my firm - there's some right headcases around here......

IF - and it's a big if! - you are interested in the commercial development of life sciences as well as the science itself, consulting could be a great, and rewarding, move. I switched after a PhD in chemistry and have never regretted it.Have a look at E&Y, who produce well-respected reports in the life science field (http://www.ey.com/global/content.nsf/UK/HS_-_Library) to get a feel for what it's about. Of the strategic consultancies, L.E.K. is particularly strong in life science and bio-tech and would also be worth a look (http://www.lek.com/career/index.asp). Both firms will have a number of people with similar backgrounds to yours, but the sector is sufficiently large that most big name consultancies will have some expertise in the area.Good luck!

I agree with Cons. Those working in the white coat industry (pharma/NHS/medical equip for example) love dealing with other white coats. Any large companies, like LEK, who sell to these guys, should be interested in you.

Thank you so much! I take it you switched to E&Y...is that the case?

Thanks Terry! Do you work in the field as well? If so, where?