Troy, howdy, and a couple of things (from an 'established' academic).

Lanolin. Agreed. In SMALL quantities. But it's pretty amazing.

Academia. It's a tough call. I don't want to be Debby Downer, but if there's somebody on a committee who really (REALLY) has issue, then it could become a problem.

I'm not saying shave. I'm just trying to be realistic. It's the world: not as it should be, but as it is.

Now, having said that, I think you made VERY good calls on your 'presentation beard.' Being a bit less assertive with the 'stashe is smart. Also, you don't look like a homeless guy or Duck Dynasty or whatever. That counts for a lot.

Honestly, ask your principal advisor. She'll know.

LPR
(meanwhile, OMG one of the best. beards. ever.)