#019 - Academia to Industry: Tech Sector

HOW TO
Transition from Academia to Industry

For researchers and postdocs in Japan, moving from academia to the industry sector can be an exhilarating yet challenging journey.

This transition involves not just a change in job roles but also adapting to different cultural norms and expectations in the workplace.

Here’s a guide to help you navigate this shift, especially in Japan's dynamic tech industry.

Difference between Academia and Industry

In Japan, the work culture in academia versus industry can differ significantly.

While academia might afford you a certain level of autonomy in research, the industry will likely demand quicker results and more collaborative projects.

The hierarchical structure in Japanese companies also means that respecting seniority and following protocol are crucial.

Transitioning effectively requires understanding these subtleties and adapting your communication and work style accordingly.

Leveraging Your Academic Experience

Your research skills are a valuable asset.

Skills such as data analysis, meticulous documentation, and detailed reporting are highly regarded in tech-related industries.

However, it’s also essential to develop a more commercially-oriented mindset.

This means understanding the business implications of your work and being able to demonstrate how your research can be applied to solve industry-specific problems.

Building Industry-Relevant Skills

To make yourself more attractive to industry employers, focus on building skills that are directly applicable to the business sector.

This includes project management, team leadership, and understanding of industry regulations and market needs.

Additionally, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial.

Engaging in internships or part-time roles can be a great way to develop these competencies.

Networking and Finding Opportunities

Networking plays a crucial role in uncovering job opportunities in Japan.

Utilize platforms like LinkedIn and local networking events to connect with industry professionals.

Also, consider joining professional groups or forums that cater to the tech industry.

Being proactive about your job search and utilizing your academic contacts can also lead to potential job opportunities.

Remember, transitioning is not just about finding a new role; it's about understanding where you can apply your skills and how you can add value in a new environment​.

Navigating this transition requires patience and a willingness to adapt to new environments and expectations.

By understanding the cultural landscape of Japanese industry, leveraging your academic skills, and actively engaging with the industry community, you can make a successful shift from academia to a rewarding career in the tech industry.

COMPANY SPOTLIGHT
Soracom - Connect and Manage IOT Devices

Company Mission
“Soracom was founded in 2015 with a mission to accelerate global connection. We’re working to bring that future closer by making IoT connectivity more powerful, more accessible, and more affordable for the teams now building tomorrow’s connected world.

Soracom’s fully virtualized global platform provides full MVNO capability along with a powerful connectivity management platform, unified, “single pane of glass” management for connectivity options from cellular and LPWA to Wi-Fi and satellite, IoT SIM and eSIM solutions, zero-touch provisioning services, multiple secure networking capabilities, and advanced integrations with leading cloud providers.

Whether launching new products and services or hardening million-scale deployments, Soracom customers can count on leading-edge technical capabilities and expert solutions support to anticipate challenges in the field and effectively reduce the cost of operating IoT networks at scale.”

Useful links

• Soracom Website

NEW TECH NEWS
Sony, Nature magazine create award for female researchers

An international prize established by Sony Group Corp. and Nature magazine recognizes exceptional female researchers in the technology sector.

The goal of the March 6 announcement of the "Sony Women in Technology Award with Nature" is to support women in IT fields where there are more than twice as many male researchers as female ones.

Check out the full story from Asahi Shimbun.