September 2024

Career Advice from Dean Alejandro Aballay

This September kicks off Alejandro Aballay, PhD's first full academic year as dean of the MD Anderson UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. To begin the year, he shares insights into his career path, his journey to this position, and his career advice for students.

What or who inspired you to become a scientist?

From an early age, I was fascinated by nature, life's existence, and the universe's formation. Since middle school, I knew I wanted a career in science, either in physics, chemistry, or biology. At the time, I started reading an encyclopedia called Frontiers of Science and got absolutely hooked. My interest in biology began in high school, thanks to an exceptional professor. During that time, I started reading not just science fiction, but also Helena Curtis' Biology book. The book was particularly inspiring because it teaches biological principles and offers insight into the discovery process.

What led you to your decision to become a Dean? I've always been passionate about graduate education, and my service started when I was a junior assistant professor. I have served in almost every capacity you can imagine in graduate education. I've served in admission committees, advising committees, and executive committees as program director, and I have even evaluated graduate programs for sister institutions. My decision to become the dean of the Graduate School was driven by a desire to make a broader impact within graduate education and the overall academic community. I wanted to contribute to shaping the future of scientific research and education, and I saw this role as an opportunity to support and mentor the next generation of scientists. The role allows me to implement innovative programs, promote interdisciplinary research, and advocate for the needs of students and faculty.

Throughout your career in academia, what has been the most challenging part and how did you overcome it? One of the most challenging aspects of my career has been balancing research, teaching, administrative duties, and service in general. Each role demands significant time and energy and finding that balance was initially difficult. I overcame this challenge by prioritizing tasks, delegating effectively, and always keeping sight of my core ideals of advancing scientific knowledge and fostering the growth of trainees and colleagues.

What skills are necessary for your success as a scientist and as an administrator? In general, critical thinking, perseverance, and attention to detail are crucial for a scientist. It's also important to be adaptable and collaborative, as science is becoming increasingly interdisciplinary. As an administrator, I believe communication and organizational skills are essential. Additionally, building and maintaining relationships, advocating for resources, and navigating academic institutions' complexities are key to accomplishing goals as an administrator.

What is the number one piece of career advice you have for GSBS students? My top advice for GSBS students is to stay humble, curious, and passionate about their work. I’d also advise students not to take rejection personally, to learn from their mistakes, and, very importantly, to quickly recover and move on from failures. Science is a very tough field, but a genuine curiosity and passion for discovery make it extremely rewarding. I’d also tell students to take risks and explore new research areas but always have a backup plan. Some of the most significant breakthroughs come from unexpected results and sometimes from mistakes.

Upcoming GSBS Events

Individual Development Plan (IDP) sessions

The Individual Development Plan (IDP) is an assessment tool tailored toward biomedical students that can be utilized to facilitate career discussions. The Office of Career Development will host IDP sessions for PhD students in years 2, 3, and 4+ throughout September. Please follow the links below to register for:

A culminating in-person session, open to all students, will be held Tuesday, September 17 from noon to 1 p.m. in the BSRB Large Classroom. Lunch will be served. Register here.

Exploring Careers in Houston's Biotech and Life Science Companies

Friday, September 20, Noon-1 p.m.

Virtual

Join the Office of Career Development for the first career exploration session of the 2024-2025 academic year! In partnership with the MD Anderson Postdoc Office, we will feature opportunities to network with three panelists in research and development roles in the Houston region.

Click here to register.

Exploring Careers in Genetic Testing and Diagnostics

Friday, October 18, Noon-1 p.m.

Virtual

The Career Development Office and MD Anderson Postdoc Office will feature a panel discussion with three scientists who work in genetic testing and diagnostics.

Click here to register.

GSBS Internship Overview Session and Panel

Wednesday, October 23, Noon-1 p.m.

BSRB Large Classroom

Come learn more about the GSBS internship approval process, timelines, and deadlines from the Career Development Office, followed by hearing from recent interns who will share their experiences.

Click here to register.

Upcoming Events and Deadlines

Merck MRL Intern and Co-Op Workshop

Monday, September 9, 6 p.m.- 7p.m.

Virtual

Merck scientists will go through a brief overview of the company and the internship program, as well as hear from former interns about their training experience.