Emily Davis has worked at the National Cancer Institute, Genentech, UCSF, and other institutions
Career Conversation with Emily Davis traces Dr. Davis’s non-linear journey from a high school student discovering research for the first time to a PhD neuroscientist, industry scientist, and science policy fellow, highlighting how scientific skills can translate across many careers. Along the way, she shares how early research experiences, strong mentorship, and work–study opportunities at the University of Pennsylvania and UCSF helped her explore neuroscience, brain aging, and cancer biology, while also revealing when it was time to pivot away from the bench.
In this session, Dr. Davis describes working in academia, biotech, and for the federal government, illustrating what “bench to bedside” really looks like and how scientists can shape health policy and education as well as do experiments. She talks candidly about burnout, career uncertainty, and navigating life decisions alongside professional ones, emphasizing that there is no single “right” path in science.
Students will hear practical advice on finding research opportunities, using postbaccalaureate programs, and making the most of internships, as well as how to build a supportive network through informational interviews and warm connections. Dr. Davis closes by encouraging learners to “know your why,” stay curious, and give themselves permission to change directions as their interests evolve, modeling a flexible, human-centered approach to building a career in bioscience.