Speaker: Amy Churchill, Assistant Professor of Ecosystem Science, Binghamton University, State University of New York

Abstract: 
Transitioning from a student into professional positions, either within academia or into ‘outside’ organizations such as government departments, industry or non-profit organizations, can be a very daunting task. There are innumerable un-written rules and tricks that candidates for positions are expected to know without necessarily ever learning about things beyond casual conversations with mentors or peers. This workshop aims to demystify the process of professional interviews, generally aimed at applicants who have (or will have shortly!) a PhD in the life sciences. We will cover first-round (often remote) interviews as well as different types of in-person interviews, such as the all-consuming on-site multiday academic interview. Come prepared to interact with other attendees in practicing preparing questions as part of the interview process and with an idea of a possible job that you would be applying for/considering in the future.

Speaker Bio: 
Dr. Churchill is a plant ecologist conducting research on consequences of global environmental change at the interface of plant community and ecosystem ecology with experience in a range of biomes and ecosystem types. Her research examines both broad patterns of ecosystem responses to global change as well as mechanisms for how plant communities may confer stabilizing or amplifying feedbacks thereby impacting ecosystem responses to environmental change. Current projects include examining three main themes: 1) Drivers of plant community and ecosystem resistance and recovery in the face of global change, 2) Shifts in plant-plant resource interactions and impacts on ecosystem function, and 3) Seasonal community dynamics and consequences for ecosystem services under global change.

**View Amy's slides here or watch her recording below.**