From PhD to Medical Science Liaison

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As a Medical Science Liaison at Ardelyx in Indiana, Brandon serves as a field-based medical expert within the nephrology and dialysis community.

In this role, he:

• Builds long-term relationships with key opinion leaders and healthcare professionals

• Provides scientific and clinical education grounded in evidence-based medicine

• Supports research and data generation efforts

• Attends major medical conferences and scientific meetings

• Engages in scientific discussions surrounding kidney disease and patient care

• Ensures communication remains accurate, unbiased, and compliant with regulatory guidelines

Best part of the job:

• Brandon loves the opportunity to connect with a diverse group of people across the nephrology field. Traveling, meeting healthcare professionals and researchers, and exchanging ideas allows him to continuously grow while contributing to improved patient outcomes.

Brandon found his current role through LinkedIn.

Key steps in his career journey:

• PhD graduate ➡️ Industry Postdoctoral Research Scientist (Eli Lilly) ➡️ Medical Science Liaison (Ardelyx, Inc.)

For Brandon, the decision to pursue a non-academic path came early.

He knew before entering graduate school that academia was not the career he wanted long term. Rather than viewing industry as a backup option, he approached graduate school with a clear understanding of the direction he hoped to pursue.

His story is an important reminder that many PhDs leave academia not because they “couldn’t make it,” but because they are intentionally pursuing careers that better align with their goals, interests, and desired impact.

1. Be thoughtful about whose advice you follow.
   Many graduate mentors are deeply rooted in academia and may have limited visibility into non-academic careers. Brandon encourages students interested in industry to actively seek mentors who understand that landscape and can provide informed guidance.

2. Don’t delay gaining industry experience.
   If academia is not your goal, Brandon recommends avoiding an academic postdoc solely because it feels like the “default” next step.

   Instead, pursue opportunities that move you closer to industry experience, such as:

   • Industry postdocs

   • Fellowship programs

   • Rotational programs

   • Scientific writing opportunities

   • Entry-level scientist roles

   Everyone lacks industry experience until they gain it, so prioritize getting exposure as early as possible.

3. Treat networking like a second job.
   Brandon emphasizes that networking should begin long before graduation. Reach out to professionals, ask questions about their work, and learn about different career paths and company cultures.

   Building relationships early can open doors to future opportunities, provide valuable industry insights, and help clarify what kinds of roles fit your interests and strengths.

Brandon’s journey highlights the value of intentional career planning during graduate school.

By seeking industry mentorship early, prioritizing real-world experience, and building a strong professional network, PhDs can position themselves for fulfilling careers far beyond the traditional academic path.