"I would tell myself that finding the right people to support your research is just as important as picking what research (topic) you do."
CHANNA JAYASENA Imperial College London

"Nobody’s career looks the same as everyone else’s, and everyone feels imposter syndrome at some point – but you deserve to be here. Everything takes time, so pace yourself and keep good records – both of your work and of conversations you might want to follow up on later!"
REBECCA DUMBELL Nottingham Trent University

"Put yourself out there and develop a network of academic friends early on. Build your academic ‘tribe’ who understand and support you, as they are going through the same work/life imbalance as you are. Each mentor has a different role in a different part of your career, but seeking mentorship independent of where you work and your field is very helpful. Finally, it’s a marathon and not a sprint – think strategically about the race – how to prepare, practise, etc."
LI CHAN William Harvey Research Institute, London

"Step outside your comfort zone and don’t be afraid to embrace new career opportunities."
JACOPO SCOTUCCI University of Cambridge

"I would go back to the first year of my PhD, which was pretty tough because I had gone from being a really competent endocrinology registrar to a molecular biology novice. I would tell my younger self to practise, be patient and ask for help, and I would reassure myself that – with the support of my brilliant supervisors – I would get there in the end. I would also say that, although there are challenges and setbacks, this is all building an inner mettle and tenacity to keep on going, which will be hugely helpful throughout your career."
SAIRA HAMEED Imperial College London

"Enjoy the time you have for science during the early years of your research career. The long hours, pressures to get data for your thesis, publications, grants, fellowships and concerns about future career prospects are difficult. But, afterwards, you will miss being able to spend your days reading the literature, designing and carrying out experiments, and making new discoveries. You will have increasingly less time to do this as you progress, so enjoy it while you can!"
VICKY SMITH University of Birmingham

"Pursue your passion – if you enjoy what you do, your work will not feel like work. Ideally your passion should align with a clinical need! Find a supportive environment with a healthy culture and kind mentors, who will nurture and support your development."
ALI ABBARA Imperial College London

"My advice would be to not be afraid to show that you don’t know something. You’re not an imposter - no one knows everything or expects you to, and being open and curious is how you learn and start meaningful collaborations. That, and if you find an aspect of your research that sparks passion, follow it!"
MELISSA E WRIGHT Cardiff University

"Say yes to extra opportunities offered to you, and then continuously seek out new ones across the full breadth of your work. These extra opportunities will teach you new skills, provide variation and satisfaction, and you never know where they may lead."
ALEXANDER COMNINOS Imperial College London

"Opportunities often arise in unexpected places and life has a habit of working things out, so avoid over-thinking things and focus on what you enjoy."
NICK THOMAS Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

"If you want to be successful, find yourself a good mentor who understands how it works but will allow you to grow as an individual."
ZOI MICHAILIDOU Nottingham Trent University and the Society’s Science Committee Chair

"Appreciate your brilliant mentors, because you’re lucky to have them. They will support you to grow your potential and realise your ambitions."
AMIR SAM Imperial College London