Dr. Sarah McLusky, is an advocate and role model for research-adjacent careers. As an advocate Sarah hosts the 'Research Adjacent' podcast, which showcases career opportunities beyond traditional academic and industry roles. She talks about why started the podcast and also talks about her four main categories of research adjacent roles, emphasising the importance of recognising the many contributors to successful research. As a role model, Sarah shares her own experiences moving into a research adjacent role post-PhD, now working as a freelancer who supports research organisations through events and communications. Some of her key insights are around how to prepare participants for meaningful engagement at events and the value of effective research communication. She encourages us to rethink career possibilities and the significance of culture in research environments.

00:29 Intro to the Episode

02:49 Introducing Sarah McLusky

04:33 The Concept of Research Adjacent

08:00 Research As a Team Sport

12:02 Career Paths Beyond Academia

20:10 Four Main Categories of Research Adjacent Roles

24:22 Sarah McLusky's Journey to a Research Adjacent Role

29:36 Balancing Passion and Pragmatism

33:17 Navigating Freelance Work

34:51 The Importance of Gathering with Purpose

45:54 Supporting the Communication of Great Research

48:49 Final Thoughts and Resources

Sarah McLusky on diverse careers, purposeful events and effective communication (CAL135, S8E1)