Life after the PhD - Part 2

What can you do after the PhD? Plus, the Music Highlight

Photo by RUT MIIT on Unsplash

• What are you going to do after the PhD?

• What should I do after the PhD?

• I have no idea what I am going to do afterwards.

These are some questions you might ask yourself, or other people may ask you.

So, what are you planning to do after the PhD?

Last week, I put out a poll and the results were interesting. A lot of people sent me private messages (whose general content I am allowed to share with you) telling me that they had no idea what they want to do and need any help they can get.

I am not an expert, I need all the help in the world too, so let’s all put our heads together and think!

Short Announcement

Before we start brainstorming ideas, I need to tell you about a great event that is taking place on May 7, 2025 and it is completely free!

The equally amazing Janet Salmons and Dr Eleanor Pritchard are presenting the webinar:

Beyond the University: (Re)Imagining Your Research Career

Using their words,

This workshop creates a judgment-free space for honest conversation about the realities of academic career transitions. Whether you’re a PhD student considering options, a post-doc facing the end of a contract, or a mid-career academic contemplating change, you’ll find practical guidance and supportive community.

I am going! How about you?

What can I do after the PhD?

• Do a postdoc. What is it? A postdoc (short for postdoctoral researcher or postdoctoral fellow) is a temporary position that someone takes after they have completed their PhD. It's usually a research-focused job that allows a person to gain further expertise, publish academic work, and build a stronger profile before applying for permanent academic or research roles. Should you do one - are you unsure? Read this article.

• Lecturer or Assistant Professorship. It is something you might like, of you like teaching: applying for faculty positions.

• Research Fellowships. Apply for independent research funding to design your own project; this is a great option if you like working solo.

• Library & Archives - Digital Humanities. Use your research and information management skills to work in digital archiving or metadata analysis.

• Consulting. If you like helping people and giving advice, this is a great idea for you to help other who want to follow an academic path. Apply your problem-solving, data analysis, or subject-specific knowledge in corporate or educational consulting.

  Do you have any other ideas? Have you done anything different from what I mentioned or do you know someone who has? Share in the comments!

The Music Highlight

For today, I have another track by the amazing Sting, when he was still a member of The Police.

Hope you like it too!