Success in the modern job market often depends as much on the strength of your professional network as it does on your research expertise. Cultivating a “professional presence” involves more than just attending events; it requires intentional relationship-building, effective digital networking, and seeking diverse mentorship. Use the resources below to master the art of the informational interview, connect with industry-specific communities on LinkedIn, and engage with the vibrant biotechnology ecosystem right here in the Research Triangle.

Mentoring, Networking & Informational Interviewing

Questions to Ask a Potential Mentor (UNC OPA Handout) This practical checklist helps postdocs vet prospective advisors by focusing on mentoring style, lab culture, authorship policies, and career support. It ensures that expectations are aligned before committing to a research group.

When, How and Why to Conduct Informational Interviews (Inside Higher Ed) This article frames informational interviewing as a critical research tool for the “hidden job market,” explaining how to identify contacts and structure 20-minute conversations to gain “insider” knowledge about non-academic roles.

Informational Interviewing (Univ. California – Berkeley) A comprehensive guide that offers a step-by-step framework for the entire process, including outreach email templates and specific questions to ask about daily responsibilities, industry trends, and lifestyle impacts.

Maximizing Your Informational Interview Investment (Science) This column emphasizes moving beyond basic “what is your job like” questions to high-level inquiries that demonstrate your research and professional maturity, helping you turn a simple chat into a long-term professional relationship.

How I Learned to Embrace Networking (Science) A relatable first-person account from a scientist who transitioned from “dreading” networking to using it strategically. It highlights the importance of reframing networking as a reciprocal exchange of ideas rather than a transactional request for a job.

Linkedin Groups

Some groups are exclusive to Linkedin, whereas others are associated with professional organizations. Actively participate in group discussions with professionals who share your interests. Membership # in parentheses.

• Professional Medical / Scientific Writers (11,000)
• Cancer Research & Oncology (5,000)
• Technology Transfer, Intellectual Property, Patent Attorneys, Tech Commercialization, and IPR Office (8,000)
• Regulatory Affairs Professional Society (93,000)
• Medical Science Liaisons & Medical Affairs Networkers (35,000)
• American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science (22,000)
• Life Science & Medical Device Sales Representatives (14,000)
• Global Public Health – HIV & AIDS (49,000)
• The Postdoc Forum (11,000)
• Lab Manager Magazine (7,000)
• Epidemiologic Management & Consulting – Epidemiology and Public Health Consultants (10,000)

Be sure to join the Linkedin “UNC Chapel Hill Postdocs & Postdoc Alumni” Group to share information on a variety of topics to facilitate your professional development and enhance the postdoctoral experience at UNC.

Triangle Biotech Tuesday (TBT)

Triangle Biotech Tuesday (or TBT) is a monthly networking event to connect scientific professionals, facilitate collaborations, and foster communications throughout RTP and the greater Research Triangle area. Monthly events bring in members of many different companies, at different stages of life and career, for the purpose of professional development and support. It allows members to reach across industries, explore job opportunities, and increase their impact in the local biotech community. TBT aims for continuous growth through the participation of major pharmaceutical, biotech, government and academic institutions within and around RTP, and is also a registered non-profit in the state of North Carolina.

MentorNet

The E-Mentoring Network for Diversity in Engineering and Science, connects mentors and mentees in engineering, science, and mathematics. MentorNet was created to foster the retention and success of women and underrepresented minorities in particular, but welcomes anyone interested in connecting with peers and experienced professionals in their field. The MentorNet Community offers the One-on-One E-Mentoring Program, which pairs postdocs with professionals in an email based mentoring relationship, the E-Forum for web based discussion of issues like job searches and the work/life balance, as well as resources and a résumé database. To learn more and find a mentor (or become a mentor), visit the MentorNet website. Membership is available on an individual basis.

State/Regional Associations & Networking

North Carolina Biotechnology Center A central hub for the state’s life science industry, providing funding, networking, and career support to professionals and startups. NC Biotech Career Center can be found here.

American Medical Writer’s Association: Carolinas This regional chapter provides networking and professional education for specialists who communicate scientific and clinical data.

Biopharma Networking Group: NC An regional organization that facilitates connections between life science professionals through events and community engagement.

Chinese Association for Science & Technology – NC This chapter promotes scientific exchange and professional networking among Chinese-American scientists and the broader NC research community.

LaunchBio: Durham A nonprofit organization that supports high-growth life science startups in Durham through educational programming and investor connections.

NC Association for Biomedical Research This organization provides educational resources and promotes public understanding of the biosciences and the importance of ethical animal research.

NC Association of Environmental Professionals A professional group dedicated to the multidisciplinary field of environmental management and the exchange of technical information across North Carolina.

North Carolina Biosciences Organization (NCBIO) As the state affiliate for the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), this group advocates for the policy interests of NC life science companies.

North Carolina Psychological Association This state association provides advocacy, continuing education, and a job board for psychologists practicing across North Carolina.

North Carolina Regulatory Affairs Forum A dedicated community for regulatory professionals to discuss compliance, drug development, and regional industry standards.

ACRP: Research Triangle Park Chapter This chapter supports clinical research professionals through local networking events, certification support, and continuing education.

Triangle Biotech A grassroots organization that fosters connections within the local life science community through informal networking and professional mixers.

Triangle Women in STEM This group aims to inspire and support women in science, technology, engineering, and math through mentorship and local advocacy.

UNC Graduate Business Careers Club A student-led organization at UNC-CH that helps graduate students transition into business leadership roles through skill-building and industry networking