Tuesday, April 02, 2013

Leaving the ivory tower

I've been planning to leave academia for some time, but kept on putting it off. Unlike the U.S. where tenure is a thing pursued vigorously by the great and the good, here in the U.K. at least it has long gone to dust. But my job was as permanent as they get, and actually left me a lot of time to do a lot of other things outside it that interested me...

Looking out over the Pacific
However recently I took a look around and discovered that everything that was getting me up in the morning had nothing to do with my day job, and everything to do with what I was doing outside it. That just isn't any way to live. So, I've just pushed the big red switch. I now have a long rope and will be using it to leave the ivory tower real soon, my last day here at the University of Exeter is later this week, Thursday the 4th of April.

I was originally planning to take a couple of months off to look around, mainly because I'm in the fortunate position that I can do that, and such opportunities shouldn't be wasted. However some Tesla-driving individuals said "Yes!" and I've now working on something that's going to swallow my life for the next couple of months.

However, I'm not complaining, it's just the sort of getting out of bed project that I'm quitting academia to do in the first place. You'll be hearing more about it shortly, just as soon as I can talk about it...

In the short to medium term I'm planning on staying freelance, and doing consulting, contracting, writing or anything else that'll pay the bills and keep the wolves from the door. Although I'm not opposed to the idea of joining a (large) company, I've just spent thirteen years working for someone else, it'll be nice to work for myself for a while. Or at least be nearer the top of the tree, as you can generally see the rest of the forest much better from there. That said, it doesn't mean I'm not open to offers; they'd just have to be interesting offers.

So, while I've got a large number of things that might come off; I'm interested in work. Preferably work of substance, but beggars can't be choosers.

I've done a number of (some quite infamous) things with iOS, and have a lot of experience on the app side of things. I have done a number of things that are now generally being lumped into the "Big Data" camp. While I'm not a Hadoop and NoSQL guy, I've done some interesting work with machine learning and agent architectures, mostly to do with distributed sensor networks. I'm a hardware guy, or at least I'm an Arduino guy, and have done a number of other things to do with that increasingly ubiquitous hardware platform.

I like playing with mobile platforms, hardware, software, sensors, 3D printers and data visualisation. Or preferably all of the above at the same time, a good example of this is the work on the Data Sensing Lab I've been doing for O'Reilly.

Basically I'm an emerging technology guy. If it's new and a lot of people know nothing about it, I probably know something or am learning about it right now. Then I generally write a book about it and move on to the next emerging technology. I like being on the cutting edge. It's interesting out here. Oh yes, I also helped discover the most distant astronomical object yet found; a gamma-ray burster at a redshift of 8.2. However I'm not so sure that's a useful skill outside of the ivory tower.

In summary then; I write, I code, I speak and am always willing to offer advice on things I know about.

Update: It has just been pointed out to me that I foresaw my own exit from academia some seven or eight years ago, back when I was still having fun in my day job, "...so what happens when I stop having fun? I'll probably have to sit down and make enough license plates so I don't have to worry about that stuff again."

46 comments:

  1. awesome!!! of course, if you want tenure, just find a job in a US university. We love British accents and competent programmers :-D

    ReplyDelete
  2. Crikey! Best of luck for the future. Hope you find the right combination of creative challenges and financial security.

    ReplyDelete
  3. It's interesting to see that I actually foresaw this seven or eight years ago, http://www.dailyack.com/2005/11/making-license-plates.html. How odd.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Good luck with whatever you decide to do next.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Hi Al, I'm sure you'll do well in whatever you decide to do. Good luck and let us know how it does! - KeithS

    ReplyDelete
  6. The artist is generally significant. There are around seventy principle artists known yet the fundamental ones get the help and the cash. chinese ivory figurines value

    ReplyDelete
  7. Amazing Article ! I would like to thank you for the efforts you had made for writing this awesome article. This article inspired me to read more. keep it up.


    wm casino

    คลิปโป๊

    คลิปxxx

    คลิปโป๊ญี่ปุ่น

    คลิปโป้ไทย

    เรียนภาษาอังกฤษ

    poker online

    ReplyDelete
  8. 카지노사이트 Great writing to see, glad that google brought me here, Keep Up cool job

    ReplyDelete
  9. 토토사이트 This is very useful article. I will connect it back to your site though

    ReplyDelete
  10. GREAT JOB! This blog presents a very valuable information. Keep up the good work! Visit our website too. Thanks! 토토사이트

    ReplyDelete
  11. It's actually remarkable. I marvel you created such an excellent post. I'm still thrilled. Take a look at the response of these individuals currently. Every person agrees with me. As an individual that can truly associate, I do not intend to conserve praises. You must constantly be an author. 바카라사이트

    ReplyDelete
  12. There are numerous variations on what the phrasing on the sign can say. doheny plaza condominiums

    ReplyDelete
  13. Aw, this was a really good post. Taking the time and actual effort to
    create a very good article… but what can I say… I procrastinate
    a lot and don’t seem to get nearly anything done.
    인터넷경마

    magosucowep

    ReplyDelete
  14. Thanks for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. info

    ReplyDelete
  15. 메이저사이트목록!! She bet everything towards the end and lost it

    ReplyDelete
  16. PG Slot, try all slots for free credit. สล็อต
    PG Slot, try all slots for free credit. สล็อต

    ReplyDelete
  17. Wonderful post however , I was wanting to know if you could write a litte more on this subject? I’d be very grateful if you could elaborate a little bit further. Bless you!
    토토
    경마사이트
    경마

    ReplyDelete
  18. It is in point of fact a nice and helpful piece of info. I’m happy that you shared this helpful info with us. Please stay us up to date like this. Thank you for sharing.
    바카라
    토토사이트

    ReplyDelete
  19. I gotta favorite this site it seems extremely helpful very helpful
    majortotosite
    racesite
    oncasinosite
    totopick

    ReplyDelete
  20. Hi, just wanted to say, I loved this post. It was practical. Keep on posting!
    It's awesome designed for me to have a web site, which is helpful designed for my knowledge. thanks admin
    스포츠토토

    ReplyDelete
  21. Just wish to say your article is as amazing. The clarity to your publish is simply spectacular and i could think you are a professional in this subject. Fine with your permission let me to grab your feed to stay up to date with impending post. Thanks one million and please keep up the enjoyable work.
    성인웹툰

    ReplyDelete
  22. Excellent site you've got here.. It's hard to find high-quality writing like yours nowadays. I seriously appreciate individuals like you! Take care!!
    토토사이트

    ReplyDelete
  23. Review and play on the best Online Poker Sites on the internet. Read E Vegas reviews on the top UK poker sites. 888Poker’s new online poker app for 2021 is made to play with. Sure you can enjoy online Poker at all sites featured here at E Vegas, but if you are a seasoned poker player or an online pro, we think its better to select a dedicated poker site like 888Casino, Pokerstars, Party Poker and GG Poker all offer great up to date platforms for the competent card smith.http://E-Vegas.com

    ReplyDelete
  24. Berpengalaman lebih dari 14 Tahun di Indonesia dan sudah banyak sekali memiliki lisensi resmi dari Indonesia. Memiliki jaringan permainan slot terlengkap di Indonesia dengan jumlah permainan Slot Online mencapai ribuan permainan. Mempunyai lisensi resmi dengan beberapa provider slot dunia seperti Pragmatic Play , Play n Go, iSoftbet , MicroGaming PG Slot , Live22 , Slot88, Joker , AdvantPlay , Spade Gaming , Gamatron , JDB , Playtech , Habanero , CQ9 , Yggdrasil , Play'n Go , OneTouch , RealTimeGaming , Flow Gaming , Astro Tech dan masih banyak provider slot favorite lainnya. Slot deposit ovo

    ReplyDelete
  25. Anonymous2:06 am

    Epic Jackpot Slots app provides you 100 million cash as a welcome bonus to get began. This is one of the|is among the|is doubtless certainly one of the} greatest initial bonuses I’ve found in free and paid slots apps. In 메리트카지노 addition to the welcome bonus and the most effective rewards, the app included gems to boost, degree up faster, and play free spins. The top benefit of this slot app, along with being free, is reasonable promoting. All free functions ensure a percentage of revenue via promoting, which may turn into annoying for users. At Epic Jackpot Slots, promoting does not hinder or interrupt the game.

    ReplyDelete
  26. This is so informative article for the Leaving the ivory tower. I have learned so much from this. You have taught us a lot in this to us. Thanks for sharing this with us. I really appreciate that. Now it's time to avail Inbound Call Center for more information.

    ReplyDelete
  27. Thanks for writing this quality informational content. This is a very informative article about leaving the ivory tower. Thanks for sharing such an amazing article with us. Now it's time to get Long distance taxi for more information.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Thank you for sharing this post! you done great effort
    Rockbridge DUI VA

    ReplyDelete
  29. Such an interesting and adventuristic article!DUI in VirginiaKeep sharing more.

    ReplyDelete
  30. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  31. The effective and popular MetaMask Chrome web browser plugin was revealed by the wallet group. MetaMask Chrome

    ReplyDelete
  32. Such an incredible post with great informative content. I will share this post. Nice article. Thanks for sharing. Now its time to avail Accident Repair Services in Washington DC for more information.

    ReplyDelete
  33. Accidente de Motocicleta en Gainesville Virginia
    "Leaving the Ivory Tower" is a thought-provoking book that explores the challenges and opportunities academics face when transitioning from academia to the real world. The author's insights shed light on a topic often overlooked. The book offers a comprehensive exploration of the complexities involved in this transition, covering both personal and professional aspects. It is a valuable resource for academics and organizations seeking to understand the potential of these individuals.
    The book excels in analysis but could benefit from more real-life anecdotes and case studies to connect readers more deeply with the experiences of those who have successfully left academia. The author's writing style is engaging, making the subject matter accessible to a wider audience and providing actionable advice and strategies.
    Leaving the Ivory Tower serves as a beacon for academics navigating career transitions and adds a valuable voice to the conversation surrounding post-academic life.

    ReplyDelete
  34. Seeking a smooth and hustle free Uncontested Divorce Lawyers, Our skilled team is here to help you.

    ReplyDelete

  35. Abogado por Accidente de Motocicleta The narrative begins with a personal reflection on leaving academia, highlighting the difference in tenure between the U.S. and the U.K. The job's permanence adds depth to the narrative, indicating the author's long-standing involvement in academia. The job allowed time for other interests outside academia, highlighting work-life balance and personal pursuits. The author's hesitation to leave academia after planning to do so creates intrigue, making the narrative more engaging and relatable to the audience.

    ReplyDelete
  36. embroidery digitizing services said...
    Leaving the ivory tower is a transformative journey, a deliberate step beyond the confines of comfort into the realms of the unknown. It symbolizes breaking free from the insular world of academia, embracing real-world challenges, and applying knowledge to effect tangible change. Whether it's transitioning from theory to practice or venturing into uncharted territories, the decision to leave the ivory tower is a declaration of one's commitment to make a meaningful impact. It's a conscious choice to bridge the gap between knowledge and action, turning ideals into reality, and contributing to a world hungry for innovation and progress.

    ReplyDelete
  37. The phrase "leaving the ivory tower" is often used to describe a shift from a position of isolation or detachment in academia or a highly specialized environment. This shift signifies a desire to engage more directly with real-world issues, practical applications, or a broader audience. It can signify a shift from theoretical or abstract thinking to a more hands-on, practical, or socially engaged approach. For example, a researcher leaving the ivory tower might be transitioning from purely academic pursuits to applying their knowledge in a more practical setting, collaborating with industry, or involving themselves in community-oriented projects. The phrase highlights a move towards more practical, applicable, or socially relevant endeavors.Disputa de Contrato Significado

    ReplyDelete
  38. trucking accident law firm
    The blog post explores the concept of leaving the ivory tower and its implications for academic exits. It provides an introduction, key insights, and a prompt for reflection. The post encourages readers to share their experiences and thoughts about leaving academia, fostering a sense of shared contemplation and understanding. The closing invitation invites readers to continue the conversation and share their own stories, creating a dynamic and supportive community around this topic.

    ReplyDelete
  39. The phrase "leaving the ivory tower" is often used metaphorically to describe a shift from a theoretical or academic environment to a more practical, real-world setting. This transition involves transitioning from academia to industry, where the focus is on applying knowledge and skills to real-world problems. This involves a shift from theoretical or research-oriented work to roles that involve practical application and implementation of ideas. Engaging with the real world involves taking a step out of a secluded or specialized environment to engage with broader challenges and opportunities. Interdisciplinary collaboration involves collaborating with professionals from different fields and backgrounds, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Hands-on experience involves embracing roles that involve hands-on experience, problem-solving, and a more direct impact on society or industry. This transition is often seen as a positive step towards making a meaningful impact beyond the confines of academic research or theoretical discussions. Individuals "leaving the ivory tower" may bring valuable insights, research findings, and expertise to address practical challenges, contributing to innovation and progress in various fields.abogados de accidentes de motocicleta cerca de mí

    ReplyDelete
  40. "Leaving the Ivory Tower" is a metaphor for academics transitioning from the academic world to engage with the broader community, industry, or the general public. This departure from the ivory tower represents the isolation and perceived detachment of academia from real-world issues. Scholars can participate in public discussions, share research findings, and contribute to debates. They can also collaborate with industries or businesses, applying their expertise to solve practical problems or develop new technologies. Academics can become involved in shaping public policies by providing expert opinions and insights. Some researchers start their own businesses based on their academic expertise, bringing academic research into practical applications. Community outreach allows academics to share knowledge and address community-specific challenges. This departure is seen as a positive step towards making academic knowledge more accessible and applicable to real-world issues.estate tax lawyer virginia

    ReplyDelete
  41. "Leaving the ivory tower" is a metaphorical expression that signifies a shift from an academic or isolated environment to a more practical or real-world setting. It involves leaving the academic bubble behind to embrace hands-on experiences and real-world challenges. It's time to make a tangible impact, embracing the complexities of reality and learning from the ivory tower. The journey begins with leaving the ivory tower, armed with knowledge and passion for real-world change. The journey involves engaging with the dynamic landscape of practical experience, moving from the scholarly heights to the ground level of hands-on engagement. It's about stepping out of academia, stepping into the challenges and opportunities of the broader world, and transforming ideas into actions and innovations. These phrases can be chosen or adjusted based on the specific context or message being conveyed abogado testamentario.

    ReplyDelete
  42. "Leaving the ivory tower" is a metaphorical term used to describe a person transitioning from an academic or research-oriented environment to a more practical or real-world setting. It symbolizes the isolation and perceived detachment of academia from the day-to-day realities of the outside world. Examples of situations where someone might use the phrase "leaving the ivory tower" include academic to industry transition, policy and advocacy work, entrepreneurship, community engagement, public communication of research findings, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Academics may leave academia to join the corporate world or industry setting, bringing their expertise to practical applications. Policymakers may engage in policy-making or advocacy work, applying their knowledge to address real-world issues. Entrepreneurs may start their own businesses or ventures based on their academic expertise. Community engagement can involve actively engaging with the local community or broader society to apply academic knowledge for the benefit of others. Public communication of research findings promotes a more widespread understanding of scientific or scholarly work. Cross-disciplinary collaboration fosters interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving.dui en virginia

    ReplyDelete
  43. The individual has decided to leave academia and explore new opportunities, showcasing a diverse skill set from iOS development to Big Data and hardware projects. Their passion lies in emerging technologies and staying on the cutting edge. They are open to a variety of projects and are open to sharing their knowledge through writing, coding, and speaking. They are open to a variety of opportunities and are open to the discovery of distant astronomical objects. The decision to leave academia reflects a genuine passion for innovation and a shift in perspective. The autonomy and independence of freelancing, consulting, and possibly working for themselves can provide a fresh experience. Their multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving, as demonstrated by their Data Sensing Lab project, exemplifies their multidisciplinary mindset. Their background in diverse technologies could be a valuable asset in the dynamic landscape. abogado flsa

    ReplyDelete
  44. solicitation of a minor
    Leaving the Ivory Tower is a book that provides a fresh perspective on academia, shedding light on the struggles of scholars outside the academic bubble. It offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by academics navigating unfamiliar territories with courage and resilience. The book serves as a guiding light for academics contemplating a transition into non-academic careers, offering practical advice and heartfelt encouragement. It dismantles myths and misconceptions surrounding career transitions, empowering academics to pursue their passions beyond academia.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Many thanks for sharing this amazing article. best family court lawyers near me

    ReplyDelete