In keeping with my desire to help former graduate students obtain post-LPL employment, I have generated a number of initiatives. These initiatives include the necessity for planetary scientists to recognize the interdisciplinary nature of our field and to entertain the realities of possible rewarding careers outside of geochemistry and related subjects.

In line with this program, I will be conducting a new for-credit offering which will allow our graduate students to enhance their employment opportunities and keep them informed viz. new developments in this rapidly changing, exciting area. The class, PTYS 505D (Frontiers in Post-graduate Experiences), will stress practical matters such as proposal writing, presentation skills, laser pointer use and communication skills.

Given the difficulties in obtaining funding in our field, however, there is no reason to wait for fall semester to begin disseminating useful information. An exciting summer opportunity has come to my attention which could be valuable not only for graduate students, but post-doctoral employees and non-tenured faculty as well. A local company has announced openings for qualified individuals. Joan has been of invaluable assistance in preparing the attached Announcement of Opportunity (AO).

I urge you all to take advantage of any opportunity that presents itself in these times of change in research science. Therefore consider the enclosed carefully and return the completed form to Joan at your earliest convenience.

Love,
My Higness, High Lord Drake, Keeper of the Chalice of Vindaloo.