Clinical Scientist: David Fredricks

David Fredricks, M.D.

How did you choose your career?

I have always been interested in science because it provides fundamental answers regarding how things work and why natural processes occur. My interest in medicine was sparked by seeing my father care for his patients, but I initially chose a non-medical science career because I wanted my own path. I spent two years working as a scientist for a biotechnology company. I later chose a medical career and obtained an M.D. to combine my interests in laboratory science with the humanistic appeal of caring for patients. I was also attracted to the notion of translating discoveries into tangible benefits for patients.

What kind of training, both formal and informal, did you receive to prepare you for your career?

I obtained a B.S. in Biology, M.S. in Biology, an M.D., and spent seven years of postdoctoral training in a molecular microbiology lab. I have always chosen areas of study or training that are naturally fascinating to me and this has been successful despite the absence of a grand plan.

How competitve and/or rigorous was the training for your career?

Medical school, residency training, the fellowship, and postdoctoral training were all very competitive but I enjoyed the competition and striving for excellence.

How long did it take you to train? Was it shorter or longer than anticipated? If you had any setbacks, how did you deal with them?

Training is an almost continuous process. If you include college, medical school, residency, the fellowship, and postdoctoral experience, I spent eighteen years in training! That is why you need to love what you do and be intrigued by your topic of investigation.

What was the process like to apply for your first job after your training was over?

Obtaining a faculty job can be challenging, but it is facilitated by good training, good connections among colleagues, and good luck. I asked faculty at my institution to refer me to job opportunities and this was a useful approach.

What would you have done differently in preparing for your career?

Grant writing is a major focus of scientific life. I would recommend obtaining formal training in this process to increase your chances for success.

How much do you like what you do? Why?

I love being able to ask a scientific question and answer this in my own lab using creativity and tools that we develop. It is even more rewarding when this knowledge is used to advance the care of patients by designing novel diagnostic or therapeutic approaches.

How do you achieve career-life balance? Is this easy or hard to do? How many hours do you typically work per week?

Achieving career-life balance can be very challenging because there are many demands on your time and science is a competitive field.

What strategies have you figured out over time to help you succeed?

There is no substitute for hard work.