RIFM’s Marissa Guttenberg, PhD, moderates an SOT career panel for graduate students
3.4.25
Research Institute for Fragrance Materials Safety Assessment Team Researcher Marissa Guttenberg, PhD, recently moderated “Navigating the Transition: From Academia to Industry,” a webinar aimed at helping graduate students and post-doctoral trainees prepare for careers outside of academia. The event featured a panel discussion with professionals at different career stages, including RIFM Director of Scientific Operations Danielle Botelho, PhD, who shared personal insights on applying, interviewing, and adjusting to industry roles.
Organized and hosted by the Society of Toxicology (SOT) for SOT Graduate Student Members, the Q&A-driven session addressed key challenges, such as overcoming bureaucratic hurdles and building a successful career path beyond academia.
“It was a great pleasure to moderate this critical event for budding scientists ready to enter the field,” Dr. Guttenberg said. “The webinar reinforced the importance of networking, job searching strategies, and career development, equipping young scientists with crucial knowledge to help them navigate their professional transitions.”
Dr. Guttenberg will also participate in the Inhalation and Respiratory Specialty Section (IRSS) Annual Mentoring Event at SOT’s 64th Annual Meeting & ToxExpo, March 16-20, 2025.
SOT’s Mentoring Event takes place March 17th, 5-6 PM EST. It will allow trainees to informally meet with IRSS members spanning academia, industry, government, and consulting sectors to discuss career paths and strategies. Last year, the event hosted approximately 70 attendees with a near 1:1 ratio of mentors to mentees, allowing for individualized and personalized conversations. This event caters to trainees of all levels, from undergraduate to post-doctoral, and features mentors at varying stages in their careers.
“Recognizing the importance of collaboration and networking within the field of science, events like this are critical for younger scientists,” Dr. Guttenberg explained. “They emphasize the importance of communication, especially while attendees are early on in their careers.”