Immunologists are research scientists who study and treat diseases related to the immune system.
Kent HayGlass is a professor emeritus in the department of immunology at the U of M’s Rady faculty of health sciences.
During his undergraduate studies, HayGlass found a microbiology course interesting, especially a segment on immunology. This course encouraged him to explore the unknown aspects of the immune system and ask important questions about its functions.
The opportunity to explore fundamental scientific puzzles sparked his interest, leading him to pursue a career in immunology.
HayGlass shared insights on his career path in immunology, and career advice for students.
“If you’re in the sciences, a lot of kids — myself included at the time — are thinking, so what do I want to do?” he said. “Certainly, if you’re interested in the physical or the biological sciences, it often comes down to maybe something in medicine.”
Students frequently consider three main options after completing their undergraduate studies. They consider pursuing clinical medicine (such as becoming a physician, nurse or therapist), continuing research through graduate studies or entering the workforce to explore career opportunities.
HayGlass emphasized that there is no single best career path, and it is important to explore and gain experience. He noted that many young people do not have the life experience to understand what a career truly involves, and the media often presents a misleading impression. Choosing a career should ultimately align with your personal strengths and skillset, which may differ from those of your friends.
For instance, in the field of medicine, success often relies on mastering a vast amount of established knowledge and applying it in a structured manner.
HayGlass explained that medicine adheres to strict clinical guidelines to ensure quality care, emphasizing the importance of teamwork among health-care professionals. He added that a career in medicine demands passion for helping the sick and being part of a collaborative team.
“You better really like people,” he said. “If you really like being with people and seeing them whether at their worst, then you can really make huge contributions.”
HayGlass explained that clinical work often involves being on call at all hours, while research offers more independence and suits those who prefer flexibility and collaboration across different specialties.
“I’m an immunologist,” he said. “I would collaborate with someone who’s a biochemist and someone who does proteomics.”
Success in research requires comfort with uncertainty and genuine curiosity. He provided an example of a colleague who left research due to her struggle with the absence of definitive answers.
Research and clinical work often lack fixed hours, unlike structured jobs, but both require strong personal investment. They also involve significant teaching, so a passion for sharing knowledge is beneficial.
“I love teaching,” he said. “I’m retired and I’m teaching now for fun. I don’t get paid. I do a program because I like sharing immunology.”
HayGlass highlighted the significance of gaining practical experience to explore potential careers. He noted that simply observing professions, such as surgery or research, is insufficient without hands-on experiences like summer jobs or volunteering in hospitals, clinics or laboratories.
Real-world exposure enables individuals to see firsthand what a career truly involves and helps them determine if it aligns with their interests.
HayGlass explained that there are exciting opportunities in biomedical research today, emphasizing the increasing interconnection of biochemistry, microbiology and immunology.
He encouraged students to explore various career paths early on through jobs, internships or conversations with professionals to discover what truly aligns with their skills and interests.
“Think carefully about your career choices and do your best not to be influenced by your friends.”
