The S2BN Virtual Career Café - In Focus: Higher Education Administration in STEM
Simone Renwick | July 22, 2021
On Monday June 21, 2021, the Science to Business Network (S2BN) hosted a virtual event to highlight careers in higher education administration in STEM. Invited speakers - Willem Peppler, Sarah Bates, Steven Liss, and David Litchfield – discussed their career paths, day-to-day roles, and the current events and challenges that impacts the higher education landscape.
About the speakers and their career paths
Willem Peppler | Research/Awards Officer, York University
After completing a PhD in Human Health and Nutritional Sciences at the University of Guelph and a postdoctoral fellowship at the Toronto General Hospital Research Institute of University Health Network, Dr. Peppler stepped out of the laboratory and into an administrative role where he supports the research endeavors at York University
Sarah Bates | Manager of Research and Graduate Studies, College of Biological Science, University of Guelph
Dr. Bates completed her PhD in Ecology at Simon Fraser University and her postdoctoral fellowship at Cornell. Her current position supports research and grant development, graduate training, and research communications in the College of Biological Sciences at the University of Guelph.
Steven Liss | Vice-President Research and Innovation, Ryerson University
Dr. Liss pursued a PhD in Applied Microbiology at the University of Saskatchewan and an OECD fellowship at AFRC Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics Research. He then went on to hold professorial faculty positions at Ryerson University, the University of Guelph, and Queen’s University, before joining the administration at Ryerson University as the Vice-President of Research and Innovation.
David Litchfield | Vice Dean, Research & Innovation, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
Upon completion of his PhD in Biochemistry at Western University and postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Washington – School of Medicine, Dr. Litchfield joined the faculty of the University of Manitoba as an Assistant Professor. He then transferred to the University of Western Ontario, where he is both a professor and departmental chair.
What is higher education administration?
Although typical duties and job titles can vary widely, in general, higher education administrators work with college and university faculty, staff, and students on projects related to academics, operations, and student life. Skills required include outstanding interpersonal, analytical, leadership, time management, and communication skills. Higher education administrators must be able to manage diverse resources, react quickly to situations, and re-prioritize as needed.
Experience of higher education administrators
Administrators may work a regular nine-to-five schedule and spend almost every day in the office, or have an irregular itinerary complicated by travel, performance, or teaching. For most, a large portion of each day is spent participating in (and sometimes leading) intra- and interdepartmental meetings. Perks of the career include university affiliation, a chance to help and work alongside students, and an opportunity to shape the institution for years to come.
Key takeaways for students interested in a career in higher education administration
1. Preparing for an administrative position:
Lots of opportunities available for fresh graduates that are passionate about advancing research and interested in administration.
Reach out to administrators in positions you are interested in for informational interviews to learn more about their duties and responsibilities. Ask them if there is anyone they recommend you speak to in order to learn more.
When speakers were asked if there were any certification programs, courses, or extra-learning opportunities that would be helpful for students seeking a career in higher education administration, panelists emphasized taking advantage of the various extra-curricular opportunities already available to graduate students that would help them to build their interpersonal skills. Speakers suggested to get some “real-life” experience by getting involved in volunteer programs or take on leadership roles in student organizations. New graduates can seek short-term contracts that can be used to springboard into a permanent position.
2. Applying to an administrative position:
Ask for the job fact sheet, which usually provides much more detail than the job posting.
During an interview, emphasize your organizational and time management skills and elaborate on your ability to work within deadlines. Also discuss instances where you showed initiative and leadership e.g., serving on committees, as well as mention collaborations, partnerships, and teamwork experience.
Do not feel limited to only applying to administrative positions in line with your academic background. Coming from a multi-disciplinary background can be advantageous so search outside of your academic field too.
Thank you to our invited speakers for their valuable insights and willingness to share!
