<p>So my situation is a little odd, but I can try to explain. I did not pursue much research as an undergrad, so I applied to some masters program to build up my application for PhD programs. But I also want to go into industry after my PhD and do not want a research-oriented academic career.</p>
<p>My masters program is only one year, so I am planning on applying after my masters to ensure time to develop substantial research experience, better LOR and a better GPA.</p>
<p>My question is, what should I do in that year in between to maximize my PhD applications? Should I work in another academic laboratory or should I get some industry exoerience?</p>
<p>I know people usually disregard getting a PhD if one does not want to go into academia, but my interest is research and development/executive positions in the biotechnology sector.</p>
<p>Its a little different in my field (biomedical engineering) because since the field is really new, majority of it is research-oriented. I’m also thinking long-term that a PhD will open more doors for me whatever aspect of the field I choose to go into (academic research, R&D, startups, tech consulting, etc).</p>
<p>There are more and more people who are receiving engineering PhDs and not entering academia, for technical positions in industry. My question relates to this transitory period which I am currently in. My immediate goal is a PhD admission, so would a year in a research-oriented position in industry or a lab position in a academic lab be more beneficial in terms of PhD admissions.</p>
<p>Why don’t you ask your academic advisors? Some (if not all) of them have sat on Ph.D. admissions committees so they should have good ideas for you.</p>