I recently completed my M.S. in Medical Microbiology & Biochemistry and I'm currently teaching microbiology labs at a community college. I'm trying to transition into an industry microbiology position, so I've been applying to entry-level and lower-paying roles to gain experience. However, I've faced multiple rejections, with employers stating that I am 'overqualified.' This has left me confused because I'm willing to accept a pay cut to gain industry experience, which I value more than salary right now. I understand that I may not qualify for senior roles due to my lack of industry experience, but it's frustrating to be turned down for entry-level positions. I suspect that hiring managers think I will leave for a better opportunity as soon as it arises, which makes sense from their perspective since training someone takes time. However, I want to assure them that I'm genuinely looking for a stable, long-term role in microbiology, not just a stepping stone. Additionally, I’m pursuing a remote M.S. in Molecular Science & Software Engineering at UC Berkeley part-time, which I believe will enhance my skills without interfering with job responsibilities. I'm curious to hear from hiring managers or recruiters about this 'overqualified' issue. What can someone in my position do to alleviate these concerns? I want to improve my approach and better understand the reasoning behind these rejections.