Re: Career Advice in Nanotechnology


"Kaumodaki09@xxxxxxxxx" <Kaumodaki09@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:
I am from a computer sciences background & wanna get into a management
related role with start ups in nanotechnology.For that I am planning
to pursue a Msc in nanotechnology or advanced materials/materials
science from the UK & then later topping it up with a MBA/Management
of technology/MSTC program from the USA.

One thing startups need in management is experienced managers, not people
with _only_ educational credentials. After your education is complete I
think you'll need to land a position at a small non-startup company and
actually work your way up into a management position. While you're busy
learning the trade you should find time to network in the nanotech field
by going to the occasional nanotech conference and try to engage people
there.

My own experience suggests that startups rarely use traditional hiring
mechanisms. Of the startups I am aware of, the core teams were built by
relying on people networks. They rarely, if ever, put out the usual
employment ads till they were well under way.

However Im not sure about the most practical subject line to study to
give me my desired profile.
Should I do a general course in nanotechnology,which acquaints me with
a bit of everything in nanotechnology without giving me a
specialization in a particular branch,or do I pick up a particular
branch like nano electronic devices or material sciences.

What interests _you_? That should answer what specialization you pursue.
Keep in mind that as a manager you'll be exercising people skills more
often than technical skills. Technical credentials prove you are no dummy
(to you and others!) - which is why they should be acquired. But
credentials are just one step of several.

As I am interested in the management/commercialization stages of
nanotechnology an Msc in which discipline will be the best for working
with start ups as an intrapreneur.

While traditional higher education is valuable and not to be dismissed,
it has its limits. Look at the issue from the point of view of a startup
company's founders: they have problems that need solving, a long list of
tasks that need to be done, and a finite amount of time and money to do
them. When they hire they are looking for people who need little or no
direction who can get the job done. They want (need!) experience and
nothing less.

The following fictitious satire is worth some small consideration, given
the unreasonable expectations that people sometimes attach to college
credentials:

http://www.satirewire.com/news/0006/satire-ellison.shtml

.

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