In June 2025, I signed a book contract with University of California Press, something I never imagined would happen for someone who no longer works in academia. For most of my career, I assumed that publishing with an academic press was only for professors or researchers affiliated with universities. So when this opportunity came to me, it was both humbling and affirming.
The experience made me realize something powerful: it’s absolutely possible to do meaningful academic work outside of academia — to contribute to scholarship, publish with respected presses, and still build a career that feels free and fulfilling.
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The Journey From Academia to Industry
I earned my PhD in Microbiology and Immunology from Temple University in 2015, then worked as a postdoc at the University of California, San Diego. Like many PhDs, I eventually faced funding cuts and job uncertainty. Finding another academic position was tough, and industry roles were no easier to land.
By 2020, I started talking openly on LinkedIn about my experiences as an unemployed academic navigating the transition to industry. Those honest reflections turned into a growing online community — and by 2021, I had landed my first nonacademic job as a science writer.
That role changed everything. I realized how many of us had been unprepared for life outside academia. I hadn’t known how to write a résumé, how to explain my transferable skills, or even what kinds of jobs I could apply for. Sharing what I learned through trial and error became my mission — and that consistent sharing would later lead to an academic book deal.
The Power of Writing and Networking on LinkedIn
Here’s how it happened: I connected with Dr. Sonali Majumdar, a career development professional at Princeton University and author of Thriving as an International Scientist. She interviewed me for her book after following my posts on LinkedIn.
Months later, an editor from University of California Press — the same press that published Sonali’s book — reached out to ask if I had a book idea. I hadn’t pitched anyone; the opportunity found me through the network I had built by showing up online and being generous with what I knew.
That’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned: LinkedIn can be a powerful networking and career-building tool — not overnight, but over time. Every meaningful post, conversation, or collaboration can plant a seed for future opportunities.
Writing the Book Proposal
The proposal itself took four months to complete — around 10,000 words and 28 pages outlining a book that explores career paths for biology graduates who don’t pursue medical school or traditional academic routes. I based the concept on my YouTube channel and podcast, The Bold PhD, where I’ve discussed nontraditional bioscience careers for years.
After feedback from my editor, revisions, and a few nervous months of waiting, I received the email: “We want to offer you a contract.”
Continuing Academic Work Beyond Academia
This journey taught me that you don’t have to be employed by a university to contribute meaningfully to academia. Since leaving, I’ve co-authored peer-reviewed papers, written career development guides, and now, an academic book.
So if you’ve ever wondered whether leaving academia means the end of your scholarly work — it doesn’t. You can still publish, teach, research, and make an impact — just on your own terms.
For more on my upcoming self-published book Navigating the Pivot (coming November 6), visit The Bold PhD.