Careers in
Biomedical Research
My general areas of research are reproductive physiology and
endocrinology. I work with various species, including non-human
primates. My work occurs primarily, though not exclusively, in a
laboratory setting with cell and tissues cultures.
The rhesus monkey and other non-human primates serve as focus of study
because, e.g., female rhesus reproductive function is very similar to that
observed for women. I don't necessarily consider myself a primatologist
per se, but a researcher using primate tissues. I am also keenly
interested in conservation of non-human primates and their habitats, and
therefore frequent the International Primatological Society and other national
and international conferences.
In terms of careers, my colleagues venture forth into conventional academia,
work as reproductive physiologists at zoos, work for pharmaceutical companies,
and head the basic side of human in-vitro fertilization (IVF) laboratories
and clinics.
An advantage of using primates for study is the similarity to human
structure and function. However, I am also interested in evaluating
specific differences in reproductive function that various primates show, so I
wish to study non-human primates for their own unique reproductive
capabilities. A disadvantage of using primate tissues is the difficulty of
procuring tissues, accessibility and ethical considerations (for example, the
invasiveness of the research, if such a research approach is followed).
This disadvantage manifests itself in a downside of the field, which is that
there are relatively few positions available and a scarcity of primates
generally. IVF positions are an exception.
My specific field of study is somewhat narrow (encompassing ovarian function,
steroidogenesis, follicle selection and effects by estrogens and environmental
pollutants), but is a definitely feasible undertaking with appropriate training,
and the important personal attributes being ambition, industry, passion and
compassion. One typically requires a Ph.D. with some post-doctoral
training, but not always for IVF laboratories. There is no one typical
career path in this line of study. One place to start is to search Primate
Info Net to find out about the Regional Primate Research Centers and other
primate laboratories worldwide. The rewards are manifold, especially the
knowledge that a biomedical contribution is being made that may enhance the
quality of life for both human and non-human primates.
Employment prospects can be quite good if one is willing to forsake lofty
remuneration in some quarters (IVF is again an exception). My salary is
derived from a University academic year salary, extramural grants for summer
salary, and speaking engagements. Annual compensation may be from less
than $40,000 in academia upon initial employment, to over $100,000 for certain
IVF situations.
In order to search for potential employment, I'd suggest scanning journals
such as Science, the American Society of
Primatology (ASP) website, etc . Contact people (potential employers
and workers in the field) via the Web/email/phone/postal mail and discuss your
interests. You will find most researchers to be amiable, accessible,
responsive, and helpful. Look up names and areas of interest in the
membership directories for IPS and ASP. Also consult
the
International Directory of Primatology. Contacts are usually quite willing to put
you in touch with appropriate people who may have positions available, or know
of someone who does. Major contacts would be at the eight NIH-sponsored
Primate Centers, which are very visible and accessible via the Web.
However, an even easier initial approach to take is to work as an undergraduate
researcher, work-study student, volunteer, etc., in a laboratory of a scientist
using non-human primate models. If the researcher is worth her/his salt,
you will be incorporated into the overall life of the lab, and be included in
treks to conferences where you will be exposed to the wonderful world of
primatology and other areas, and be able to meet the investigators working in
the area.
The future for employment prospects is always difficult to assess, but it is
expected that non-human primate models will continue to be used as models for
AIDS and other human disorders (including reproductive dysfunction), and that
therefore this field will thrive.
