In this episode, Drs. Nicole Quinn and Brenda Raud speak with Dr. Rachel Perry at the Yale School of Medicine about the long-standing expectation that scientists must move between institutions or countries to advance their careers. Rachel shares her unconventional path of remaining at Yale from undergraduate training through faculty appointment and discusses the intentional decisions, mentorship strategies, and clear scientific differentiation required to build independence while staying in one place.

Brenda offers a contrasting perspective shaped by international mobility, highlighting both the professional benefits and personal costs of relocating. Together, they explore how shifting norms around dual-career couples, family considerations, remote collaboration, and open data are challenging traditional models of academic progression and offer practical advice for scientists navigating whether to move—or stay—while building meaningful, impactful careers in science.

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