Dear Deb,

I am currectly in my second year of Ph.D (Germany). I am working in the field of Immunolgy. I am very passionate about bench work and wanted to do research in Tuberculosis (Immunology). I am not pretty clear whether I should choose academia or industry. Should it be better to opt for a post-doc in TB research in industry or (research institute-academia) or I take a job in industry directly without going for post-doc? Does the post- doc will be of an advantage (in terms of salary & perks) if my final gaol is to do TB research (bench work only)?

and my interest in particular, is to do basic reserach.Screening of drugs for TB is not much interesting to me rather I would prefer doing basic reasearch. Will this be possible in industry?

Also, my concern is, if I choose academics, I think one day I should land up writing grants and supervising people which I feel is more of management and less of Science. I enjoy writing proposals but not really into starting my research group.I really need to stay in core research all time as I get pleasure only in bench work- (specifically working with high risk pathogens).

Also let me know whether UK or USA would be better in terms of money. I am very flexible and could consider any place for my research. Of course, if I find my topic of interest.

It would be great if you could leave your suggestions and comments.

Thanks in advance…