Navigating an Academic Career in Surgery

A successful academic career is an opportunity to change the trajectory of healthcare in a meaningful way. Attaining a leadership position in an academic setting provides the opportunity to improve surgical education, pursue practice-changing research goals, and inspire a new generation to enter surgical careers. There are many pathways to ascend in surgical leadership including departmental, educational, and decanal routes. Relationships and networking are essential for access to opportunities, visibility, and recognition. The academic surgeon must develop a national presence to ensure career progression and impact. There are many strategies to achieve a national presence such as involvement in professional organizations, publishing high-impact research, advocacy, and leadership. Careful planning is needed to be successful and includes thoughtful selection of academic endeavors, effective time management, development of leadership skills, and alignment of goals and vision with leadership.