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[HermoineG]

Hi everyone,

I have applied to some public health PhD programs, mostly in health behavior or related programs. My research has mostly been related to HIV care continuum. I am a Psychology masters student and will finish my masters in May 2016. I was wondering about the job market in public health field. I dont have any experience in this field. I was hoping someone could share their job-application experiences with me. Also, does anyone know what is the pay like for someone just starting their career in PH research?

I will start looking for jobs in January or February. I am just making sure I have a Plan B if my Plan A (Phd student) fails this year.

[TonyaB]

My first few jobs were at hospitals or universities as a research coordinator.  It's the day to day work in research: recruiting patients, paying patients, interviews, study procedures, IRB stuff, regulatory paper work. 

Depending on where you live it can pay anywhere from $35 to $80K (80 is more like a project manager who does research).

 

[HermoineG]

Hi TonyaB, thank you for your reply! So the project manager - she/he has to have a PhD right? Is it possible to climb up the ladder (in research) if you don't have a PhD?

[rising_star]

Not in your field but I've seen ads for Project Manager positions in university-affiliated hospitals that require the master's and several years of experience but don't have the PhD listed as a minimum qualification.

[HermoineG]

Thanks rising_star. This makes me feel a little better. I am just waiting to hear back from schools and trying to keep my options open.

[TonyaB]

19 hours ago, PsychChick said:

Hi TonyaB, thank you for your reply! So the project manager - she/he has to have a PhD right? Is it possible to climb up the ladder (in research) if you don't have a PhD?

I'm a project manager now and I have a Master's. For my job you had to have an Master's plus 2-3 years experience. While I do think it's possible to climb up the ladder in research, I think (in regards to public health) it's harder to command more money and/or get certain opportunities and grants. A lot of the jobs I see that I would love to transition to require a PhD. As I get older, I want more so I am applying for a PhD now. It really depends on your goals. 

[HermoineG]

Hi TonyaB - Thanks a lot for your reply! That's some really good info. Wish you all the best for your PhD applications!