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I think there needs to be some clarification about what non-profit/academia research is as opposed to industry research. In academia/non-profit, it's exactly as it sounds - not for profit. In academia/non-profits, you receive grants to fund that research. This is where a lot of ground-level basic science research is being done. It is not always an affiliate/satellite/associate of a university (although many unis are doing their own awesome research). In Industry-based research, the end result is often a product (ie pharma, consumer goods). These are more internally funded.
As for scientific research often being suggested as a field for introverts, I really don't know why that is. You'll be in contact w/ research staff, collaborators, sponsors, subjects/patients (if doing human subjects research), and even in some cases media if your research is considered interesting enough. I also don't think it's a field where you can 'be in your own world'. You constantly need to be up on the latest findings/other research endeavours of your peers.
KM_W&M06 - I totally know what you mean about having to give way advance notice when taking time off. A lot of times, labs are so small, you're basically the only one "running the show". Even when my PI would give me those days, I still felt guilty for not being there! I guess I meant more flexibility in terms of the actual research that's being conducted. Being in academia/non-profit, I think, gives you a little more freedom and control over your own studies.
ETA - maybe this should be moved to the work & employment forum?
Ah, good explanation on the freedom/flexibility of "running the show"...I tried to rep you again but I need to spread some around first!
Your biggest problem is having no publications. Most people come out of an MA/MS with at least a thesis, and often a couple of publications. Writing is definitely an important qualification for think-tank positions, especially academic writing.
Otherwise, you are reasonably well suited for pursuing an entry level research analyst position. Just realize that it is not going to pay very much at all and you could make double or more in private industry.
This is true (bolded). Your graduate faculty advisor should have told you that grad students are expected to publish an article or two, and present a paper at a conference in your field. Possibly the demographic maps you produced for an employer could substitute for publications, to an extent.
As for scientific research often being suggested as a field for introverts, I really don't know why that is. You'll be in contact w/ research staff, collaborators, sponsors, subjects/patients (if doing human subjects research), and even in some cases media if your research is considered interesting enough. I also don't think it's a field where you can 'be in your own world'. You constantly need to be up on the latest findings/other research endeavours of your peers.
It is assumed that some of the most famous scientists in history were introverts or had social anxiety based on the information we have on their lives. Almost every job is going to require some human contact, but some are better than others for introverts. I'm an introvert myself. I've seen this a lot with almost every job that is recommended for introverts, someone says, "No, you have to be in contact with this person and that person." If introverts listened to these people, they wouldn't ever attempt or accomplish anything. I'm starting a PhD program with the hopes of one day becoming a professor. I've done some work in education in the past and enjoyed it. I'm sure people who aren't introverts and know little about them would tell me that education would be a horrible choice for an introvert.
1) I can deal with people, but no more than 20% of the time is face time.
2) I am looking for entry level research and want to know IF I am qualified or not.
-And if so, what positions make sense.
Thus far in my search (1.5 months) I am not getting hits, though in part maybe it is due to it being summer.
I am seeking work in academia, non-profit, think tank as an entry level research assistant/associate in demography, polling, geography, or urban/transportation planning.
I have an MA in Geography with a GIS certificate. I have two internships, one with a town planner, another making demographic maps at a University Library. I briefly was at the USGS.
GIS is a secondary skill (15% of the job) my best skill is studying, researching, data mining, analysis in descriptive statistics.
I do not have any publications or advanced stats beyond Calculus I.
1) Do I have the qualifications to work in such organizations?
2) If not, what skills do I need, how can I get there?
3) I have AS and need to work in a flexible, learning environment. Does it make sense to find some kind of work withing these organizations even if not as a researcher and try taking additional coursework to get to where I need?
4) If so, what kind of jobs would be a fit for an Aspie (need flexibility, routine, rhythm, little people contact).
Thanks.
Most think tanks begin at the PhD level. Even at that level, there aren't that many think tanks around and everyone would like to work for one.
For an entry-level position, they're not going to assume you know everything, however you'll be expected to have a pretty solid understanding of how to accomplish the job requirements...
Being in academia/non-profit, as opposed to industry, will definitely give you more flexibility. Another plus, your PI is more likely to include you as a coauthor (providing you actually do the work). As for routine and rhythm... something ALWAYS pops up in any field of research. With experience though, you learn how to deal with those bumps. Little people contact... ehhh... most likely you'll be dealing with a bunch of people... PIs, post-docs, sponsors, etc. Though you may not have day to day interaction with them.
A warning though you probably already know this... research positions in academia/non-profits - especially entry-level - for the most part, don't have the best job stability. You're relying on grants and, unless you're lucky enough to work for a giant in your field with $$$ coming in, you could be cut at any minute.
What this poster said. If it's what you want, go for it.
Maybe not a think tank.
And you might want to begin working towards your PhD if this is your goal.
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I guess I meant more flexibility in terms of the actual research that's being conducted. Being in academia/non-profit, I think, gives you a little more freedom and control over your own studies.
