Understanding western academia: Advice for job-seekers and recommendation letter-writers

Abstract

Spending some time abroad can be an important period of growth and development in a scientist’s life and career. In some respect, scientists should be able to move freely around the world, as science is a universal endeavor that transcends boundaries. However, academia is a human activity that is subject to culture and tradition and can make movement more complicated. Here, I provide some advice for Japanese scientists who are interested in finding and winning positions in Western academia. Of course, doing great science published in top international journals is the most important factor that will promote the career of any scientist. But, there are some secondary factors and strategies, “unwritten rules”-that may not be obvious to Japanese academics and may limit their potential. I discuss how to find positions, contact potential supervisors, and write good recommendation letters in the western style.