What do you do if your boss steals credit for your biotech breakthroughs?

2 Seek Advice

Navigating this delicate situation often requires external advice. Reach out to a mentor or trusted colleague within the biotech field who can provide an objective perspective. They might have faced similar challenges or can offer insights into how to approach the situation without escalating it unnecessarily. Legal counsel may be necessary if your intellectual property rights are at stake. Professional organizations related to biotechnology often offer resources or advice for dealing with ethical issues in the workplace.

3 Document Evidence

Documentation is your strongest ally. Ensure that all your research, experiments, and results are well-documented with dates and details that prove your involvement. In biotech, this could include lab notebooks, experiment protocols, and data sets. Having a clear record can support your claim if you decide to address the issue formally. Moreover, in biotechnology, where patents and publications are crucial, such documentation is essential for establishing your rightful place as the creator or co-creator of the work.

4 Address Directly

If you feel comfortable, consider addressing the issue directly with your boss. Choose a private setting and prepare your points beforehand, focusing on the facts and how the situation affects your professional growth. It's important to communicate calmly and professionally, avoiding accusatory language that could put your boss on the defensive. Instead, aim for a solution-focused conversation that acknowledges the importance of recognition for career advancement in biotech.

5 Explore Options

If direct conversation isn't fruitful or possible, explore other options within your organization. This might include speaking with human resources or another supervisor, especially if there's a pattern of behavior from your boss. When dealing with intellectual property, such as a biotech innovation, consider the role that patent filing or authorship on publications plays in your field. These formal recognitions can provide tangible evidence of your contributions.

6 Move Forward

Finally, consider your long-term career goals and whether staying in your current position serves them. If your work environment doesn't value your contributions or respect intellectual property rights, it may be time to look for opportunities elsewhere. The biotech industry is vast, with many organizations that may better align with your values and career aspirations. Remember, your talent and hard work are your most valuable assets, and there are places where they will be appreciated and rewarded.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?