Leaving research was a little bit like leaving South Africa. It was an ending without a beginning, but still rather exciting. The fact that it wasn't entirely my decision did cause some anxiety, but this was outweighed by the knowledge that I had to be with my Mother during the last few weeks of her life.
Three years on, and I was recently asked to participate in a survey about what research staff do next. I surprised myself with the the answers I gave to the questions. Surprised because although I had been out of research and science, the skills I developed as an academic were still very much in use.
Scientific research is not just about pipettes, and buffers, extractions and electrophoresis, endless gels and PCRs, number crunching and statistics. Research is about teaching, communication, critical thinking, independent working, problem solving and time management. Scientists are project managers, networkers, innovators and leaders. And these are all valuable transferable skills.
So, far from feeling let down about not being in research, I felt uplifted after completing the survey. I had insight, and it has given me confidence that my role as practice manager is worthwhile, intellectual and most importantly, it has a future.
My academic story lasted 22 years. My post academic story is just 3 years old. Sometimes, it takes a prod of conscience to appreciate the gifts we have.