1. Inside the sealed envelope what’s in an (ideal) letter of recommendation
Henrik Dohlman
Professor of Biochemistry and Biophysics
University of North Carolina
May 19, 2009

2. Qualities of the ideal job candidate
Research
Productivity
Scholarship
Communication
Citizenship

3. Research Asks important questions
Conceives and conducts purposeful and informative experiments, and critically interprets their outcome
Knows the literature
Understands the strengths and limitations of each method

4. Productivity Is a ‘self starter’ Is ‘versatile’ Manages time wisely
Is assertive about seeking advice when necessary
Is ‘versatile’
Is fearless and willing to use any tool needed to answer the question
Manages time wisely
Uses computers at work to do work
Employers & NIH care only about data!

5. Scholarship Sees ‘the big picture’ Attends seminars
Makes unexpected connections
Reads the literature
Is considered an expert
Shares ideas
Speaks up at meetings
Is a resource to others

6. Communication
Describes findings clearly and can explain the importance of her work
Read Science and Nature. What makes these “short, high impact” articles so special?
Seeks opportunities to present
Takes the lead on writing manuscripts
Speaks at meetings
Seeks feedback
Is enthusiastic

7. Communication 1. What is known? 2. What is not known?
3. What is the approach?
4. What is the result?
5. What is the conclusion?

8. Citizenship Is a ‘team player’ Raises the productivity of her peers
Is willing to lend expertise by providing help that is useful and pertinent
Takes responsibility
Replace reagents & clean up after yourself
Volunteers to do what needs to be done