Why an industry career move is a taboo topic in academia

Nature

by Adam Levy

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The decision to leave academia for an industry career remains a taboo topic among researchers, despite being increasingly common. In this episode of *Off Limits: Academia’s Taboos*, Adam Levy explores why discussing such transitions can feel uncomfortable within academic circles. Josh Balsters, neuroscience director at NielsenIQ and former academic researcher, shares his journey from pursuing a traditional academic path to transitioning into industry roles. His story highlights the challenges of navigating academia's pressures, such as funding constraints, publication demands, and work-life balance issues, which ultimately led him to seek more applied and stable career opportunities. Balsters initially viewed his transition as fine-tuning his academic trajectory, combining neuroscience with practical applications through postdoctoral fellowships at GlaxoSmithKline. However, over time, he realized that staying in academia was no longer aligning with his goals or well-being. The turning point came when he noticed colleagues leaving academia, sparking a realization that alternative career paths were possible. This shift in perspective, coupled with industry's evolving nature, prompted him to explore opportunities beyond the traditional academic route. The podcast emphasizes the systemic issues within academia that contribute to burnout and dissatisfaction. Balsters reflects on the cumulative impact of challenges like funding pressures, the publication system, and the lack of work-life balance, which eventually pushed him toward industry. These experiences resonate with many researchers who struggle with similar frustrations but may feel hesitant to discuss them openly due to stigma or uncertainty about alternative career options. For readers interested in science careers, this episode underscores the importance of exploring diverse pathways beyond academia. By breaking the taboo around transitioning out of academia, it becomes clearer that leaving is not a failure but a valid choice for those seeking better alignment between their work and personal lives. Balsters' story serves as a reminder that researchers have options outside the traditional academic trajectory, offering valuable insights for early-career scientists contemplating their career paths.

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Originally published on Nature on 2/26/2026