The Regulatory Domain as a Path for PhDs With Drew Slack - a podcast by David Mendes, PhD

This week on the show, I'm bringing you yet another treasure from the vault - my Season 1 conversation with Drew Slack, where we talked about his journey from his PhD in pharmacology to his current career in the medical regulatory space.

This is a special episode for me, because of the energy of this conversation and because it was the first interview where I let go of my list of questions and allowed the conversation to flow freely, based on what Drew had to share.I consider it a gold nugget from the vault and I hope you will enjoy it as I do.

Happy listening!What you’ll learn about in this episode:

Everyone is subject to sudden changes coming from external factors, such as the abrupt cancellation of a grant programThe importance of physical activity and community outside your research as a graduate student and as a postdoc
The regulatory domain as a career outlet for PhDs in the life sciencesHow to rebrand yourself when interviewing for a non-academic position
How informational interviews can help you navigate the hiring process for jobs in governmental organizationsMoving laterally inside an organization to reach a position that fits you best
How your hobby or your side-gig can shape your professional future and have a tangible impact on your career opportunitiesThe importance of committing a portion of your time to you and your own personal and professional development



Drew Slack is an experienced Medical Affairs Director with accomplished career history in the biotechnology and health regulatory sectors. Skilled in Oncology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Management, and Clinical Research. Scientific professional with Postdoctoral experience in Translational&Clinical Oncology Research, with Ph.D. focused in Molecular Pharmacology and Oncology from McGill University.

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Thank you, Drew Slack!If you enjoyed this interview with Drew, let them know by clicking the link below and leaving them a message on LinkedIn:Click here to thank Drew Slack on LinkedIn!

Click here to share your key take-away from this interview with David!This episode’s resources:

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Ashley Ruba – The State of the Post-PhD Job Market

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