This book draws on the author’s experiences during her five-year journey towards tenure at a top-tier university in Singapore to offer an internationally relevant, STEM-oriented perspective with reflections, insights, and practical tips for building an academic career in STEM fields.

Often, little is really known about what it means to be a university professor until one is actually in the role and much learning is done “on the job”. This book collates and updates blog posts that the author has written throughout her career to explain the multiple roles of an assistant professor at a top research university. It chronicles the day-to-day challenges, pressures, and rewards of academic life. It is organized thematically and covers topics like what an assistant professor actually does, how to foster an innovative research group, how to achieve target research outcomes and stand out from the crowd, how to create and manage a diverse research group, and how to achieve a sustainable work–life balance. It provides both practical advice and personal reflection, enabling readers to better understand the job requirements and prepare for success within this challenging and competitive environment.

This work provides a vital insider’s perspective to early-career academics, including postdoctoral researchers and assistant professors, as well as graduate students aspiring to academic careers. It also contains valuable information for university administrators, educational policymakers, and anyone responsible for career development programs and academic mentoring initiatives in universities.