As final-year students at the University of the West Indies (UWI) in the Faculty of Science and Technology, you're likely contemplating the myriad career paths ahead.
The journey from university to professional life can be both exhilarating and daunting, filled with uncertainties and opportunities.
To shed light on the diverse paths available to science graduates, we interviewed Damion Neath, a UWI alum who has blazed a trail of entomological excellence from Jamaica's shores to the forefront of industry innovation.
Join us as we delve into Damion's inspiring journey from academia to industry.
Navigating Academic Terrain
Damion Neath's academic voyage started with a curiosity for the sciences, which led him to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Experimental Biology in the Department of Life Sciences.
Damion Neath's fascination with insects began during his third year at university when he was introduced to a Zoology course. He recalls that the course profoundly captured his attention, leading to a newfound love for insects.
Damion describes the experience of studying Zoology as one where everything came naturally to him. This deep connection with the subject matter sparked his interest and ultimately paved the way for his career in entomology.
Delving deeper into his passion, he honed his expertise through an MPhil in Zoology, delving into genetic diversity and pest management techniques.
Damion Neath is currently pursuing a PhD in Zoology. Specifically, his research focuses on the instinct and management techniques of a species that affect the sugar industry. This research builds upon his previous academic achievements and expertise in the genetic diversity of agricultural pests
Bridging Academia and Industry: Forging a Path in Entomology
Transitioning from academia to industry, Damion found himself at the forefront of pest management within the sugar industry. His role as an entomologist tasked him with developing innovative strategies to combat sugarcane-related pests, safeguarding crops and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.
Since 2018, he has been at the forefront of pest management efforts, meticulously researching strategies to combat sugarcane-related pests.
His responsibilities within the Jamaica Sugar Industrial Authority involve researching and implementing management strategies for sugarcane-related pests like the sugar cane borer moth, which can significantly impact crop yields if left uncontrolled.
One of Damion's key tasks is to assess different commercial varieties of sugarcane for their tolerance to bora damage. By identifying resistant varieties, he aims to promote their use among farmers, particularly in areas where bora infestations are prevalent.
Additionally, Damion is involved in monitoring sugarcane fields for various pests, not just limited to the borer moth He ensures that pest levels are kept in check and takes proactive measures to prevent the introduction of new pests into the country, especially from neighbouring regions like Brazil, Colombia, and the Dominican Republic.
Beyond his research and monitoring duties, Damion also plays a role in educating farmers and industry stakeholders about effective pest management practices. His expertise and dedication are essential in safeguarding Jamaica's sugar industry against the threats posed by pests and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
Transitioning from academia to the industry posed challenges for Damion, especially in adapting to the different norms and priorities of the industry. However, his passion for entomology and dedication to making a meaningful impact have driven him to overcome these challenges and excel in his role within the sugar industry.
Navigating the Job Search and Locations
Damon expressed a flexible approach to work location, emphasizing that as a science student, he was open to opportunities beyond Kingston.
He recalls interviewing for the job with the Sugar Industry Authority and searching for places to rent within the area the very same day.
What sets Damion's journey apart is his unwavering willingness to venture beyond familiar territories in pursuit of career opportunities. Hailing from Manchester, he recognized the need to cast a wide net in his job search, embracing relocation as a means to advance his career.
This flexibility and openness to new experiences have been instrumental in shaping Damion's professional trajectory.
Advice for Aspiring Scientists
Drawing from his own experiences, Damion offers invaluable advice to science graduates and final-year students embarking on their career journeys
Embrace diversity: Explore various career paths and remain open to opportunities outside of traditional expectations.
Persevere: In the face of challenges and setbacks, maintain resilience and determination to pursue your goals. Damion recalls moments of doubt when he felt unsure about his prospects in entomology. However, he remained resilient and determined to find opportunities, showcasing his belief in his abilities
Leverage transferrable skills: Your degree equips you with a diverse skill set applicable across various industries—don't hesitate to showcase these skills in your job search. He underscores the value of multidisciplinary education, noting that while his degree focused on experimental biology, he draws upon various courses such as biology, biotechnology, and entomology in his current role. Additionally, Damion advises students to carefully examine job descriptions and consider how their experiences, even if brief or tangential, align with the requirements. He urges them not to be deterred by perceived gaps in their qualifications but instead to seize opportunities for growth and learning.
Network: Build connections within your field of interest and seize networking opportunities to expand your professional network and gain insights into potential career paths.
Conclusion
As we conclude Damion Neath's inspiring journey from UWI graduate to entomologist, we invite you to explore more graduate stories like his. Each narrative offers valuable insights and experiences that can guide and inspire current students in their career paths.
We encourage you to delve into these stories, reflect on the diverse paths taken by UWI graduates, and consider how their journeys resonate with your aspirations. Whether you find common ground, new perspectives, or simply feel inspired, we invite you to leave a comment sharing your thoughts or experiences.
Your feedback not only enriches the community but also fosters connections between alumni and current students. By engaging with these stories and sharing your insights, you contribute to a vibrant dialogue that transcends boundaries and empowers others in their academic and professional pursuits
These stories always encourage me to keep reaching as high as possible
Well done my son proud mother