Transitioning into Government roles

Introductory Resources

• Panel discussion – PhDs with careers in government in and outside of the US, 1-hour video.
• GoGovernment.org is the main resource to learn about career options in the US government (“career guides” tab), access internships and fellowships (“Our Fellowships and Internships” and “Federal internship Finder” tabs), etc.
• Broad overview of careers that can be pursued in government, and the uniqueness of that sector, The Muse.
• PhD careers in policy vs regulatory affairs in government agencies, AAMC.
• Further resources on PhD careers in government, fellowships to transition into government roles, etc., Yale Graduate Affairs.

Preparing to transition into that sector

• Federal Resume Writing, GoGovernment.
• Interview Preparation for Federal Jobs, GoGovernment.
• Growing your network and having informational interviews with PhDs who have transitioned into careers of interest to you will enable you to learn more about the job’s daily responsibilities, hiring process, career progression, etc., and the sector as a whole.
  • Look for and join relevant thematic groups on LinkedIn, online communities, etc.
  • Look for BU Mentors and Alumni who have transitioned into this career area.
  • The Social Scientist enables early-career researchers to connect with folks who have transitioned in various career sectors, including the US government.
• Analyze job descriptions to learn more about what institutions and agencies are currently looking for.
• Attend American Societies’ conferences to meet with federal agency members, and consider joining the BU Science Policy Network to gain relevant skills and expand your network accordingly.