Book excerpt: Planning a Career in Biomedical and Life Sciences presents useful information, insights, and tips to those pursuing a career in the biomedical and life sciences. The book focuses on making educated choices during schooling, training, and job searching in both the academic and non-academic sectors. The premise of Planning a Career in Biomedical and Life Sciences is that by understanding the full path of a career in either the biomedical or life science fields, you can proactively plan your career, recognize any opportunities that present themselves, and be well prepared to address important aspects of your own professional development. Topics include choosing your training path, selecting the best supervisor/mentor, and negotiating a job offer. - Provides strategies on evaluating biomedical and life sciences education and professional development opportunities in a thorough and systematic fashion. - Discusses possible pitfalls and offers insight into how to navigate them successfully at various points of a scientist's career. - Offers valuable advice on how to make the best choices for yourself at any stage in your career.