Outreach & Recruitment Blog |
![]() |
Observations from a Former ARS Researcher: A Monthly Blog
By: Moushumi Paul
![]()
A final note: this blog is a work in progress, with the goal of providing information to new ARS scientific hires that they will find interesting or helpful to them in their careers. This page can also serve as a resource for students, interns or prospective employees who are interested in information relating to ARS employment. So if, as you’re reading this, you have suggestions or comments and would like to contact me or my colleagues at the ODEO, feel free: careers@ars.usda.gov. We are happy to take suggestions for future blog topics, webinars, career development opportunities, etc., that would be useful to you in your current or future career as an ARS researcher.
Dos for Success as a Research Scientist with USDA-ARS (Part I):
Do find good mentors:
Do ask questions and if needed, ask for help: There are a number of aspects to government employment that can seem quite confusing when you are a new employee. Setting up performance standards and individual development plans, all the different training requirements, all of the forms that completing - these can be overwhelming. It is important to know what each of these intimidating requirements actually is and how it affects you – this information makes them much less intimidating! For instance, my first set of performance standards was a mess because I was unsure of what they were and how they would be used down the line. If I had really understood that these are the metrics, of my own choosing, by which I will be evaluated each year, I would have been better about choosing them and therefore setting myself up for better success.
Do learn to communicate effectively: As a researcher, writing skills are fundamentally important. The purpose and impact of your work can not be fully disseminated unless you can effectively communicate its importance and necessity. Effective oral communication is also important, both when presenting research results to an audience as well as when interacting with fellow colleagues. Being able to clearly and succinctly express yourself can limit misunderstandings and miscommunication in the workplace - this will make your life so much easier!
Don’t forget to check back next month for Dos for Success as a Research Scientist with USDA-ARS Part II! Until then, if you have any questions or comments, contact us at careers@ars.usda.gov. See you soon!
|