Video: Advice for Early Career Researchers

The PhRMA Foundation focuses specifically on funding early career researchers — doctoral students, postdoctoral fellows, and early career faculty. In this video, Foundation awardees draw from their personal experiences to share candid advice on what it really takes to build a career in science.

They highlight the importance of pursuing meaningful, real-world research questions, seeking opportunities beyond the lab, and building strong connections within the scientific community. Many emphasize that success isn’t about perfection or avoiding setbacks — it’s about persistence. From rejected papers to unfunded grants, challenges are part of the process. Growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone, leaning on mentors and peers, and staying committed to making a positive impact through science.