So, I have a dilemma. It's not really such a bad one to have. I got (an unsolicited) job interview offer today. From someone big and famous, in a somewhat related field to my PhD work. It's even close to husband's family. AND well funded (really well funded). The project sounds potentially interesting. I would learn a lot at least. And the PI was even nice and easy to talk to! Perfect no?
BUT, I had kind of decided that I wanted nothing more to do with my current work and wanted to switch to something not even remotely related to it or to the project on offer. I wanted to learn a new model system, and tackle more applied questions. The PI invited me to come and give a seminar and meet with the people currently working on aspects of the project. So, I said "Sure! That would be great." (I'm not crazy enough to turn down something that could be great on the spot without thinking about it!) The PI had to leave the meeting today, but told me to expect an email with details for the invited seminar soon. I'm not 100% fixed on exactly what I want to do for my postdoc, but I'm not sure I really would take the job (but it might be cool)... is it wrong to waste the group's time/money to visit if I'm not sure?
Pumpkin Cheesecake
3 days ago
Not wrong. Nobody's sure yet. That's why there's an interview. They're spending money to have you come out so you can both get to know each other better and make an informed decision about whether you want the position. Going for an interview is not a commitment from either party.
ReplyDeleteNope, not wrong at all. When you go, it will hopefully become more clear one way or the other.
ReplyDeleteBetween the conference and this it sounds like you have a lot of great options right now!
Not wrong at all - keep in mind that the point of interviews is for you to find out more about the job as well. Could you suggest to the PI that you would be interested in doing something else if they are really keen in having you?
ReplyDeleteHi! Found my way here via ScienceWoman's BAD post.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on being so awesome as to be offered this opportunity - checking it out never hurts....
Go to the interview. Ask specifically about what types of work you'd be doing- how similar is the project to your Ph.D. project? How set in stone is the project? Is there the potential to learn plenty of new skills in this lab? During the interview, you might make mention to the PI that you are concerned about expanding your skill set, and that you don't want to basically repeat your Ph.D.- his/her response might tell you all you need to know.
ReplyDeleteThanks for all the great suggestions for questions to ask. I'll let you know how it goes, once I have a date.
ReplyDelete