Advice wanted on the impact of working for an AI company (Mercor) when trying to get a scientist position in pre-clinical research
Hi Everyone!
So I just recently got my PhD and because I want to start a family I can't really afford to not have a source of income. I've already been going to networking events and conferences to get my name out there, and while I’ve met a lot of amazing people given the current job market (as I'm sure hundreds of people before me have said) it's been difficult to find a place to start. Additionally what I didn't fully realize is that (from what I heard) having a PhD makes me over qualified for an RA position (which I thought was weird), and I'm too under qualified for a principle scientist position (which I completely understand). This all being said, I've accepted it might take a bit to find a position but have been thinking about filling the gap in time by working part-time at an AI company/tutoring, taking coursera courses to stay up to date, continue to be involved with my old lab and assist with projects, and continuing to network. The thing that makes me anxious is that I'm not sure if hiring managers for the roles I'm interested in will see this and put me in box I don't want to be in.
With all of this I need advice on if I am planning to do too much / what else I should be considering, and if working in an AI company or as a tutor to make an income while trying to find a job will negatively impact my job search.
Thanks!