Vanisha Lakhina
Associate Medical Director at VMLY&RI felt isolated when I was exploring a transition, but now I realize that there are tons of ex-academics leading fulfilling work lives in a variety of sectors.
Researchers find all sorts of rewarding careers – smart people work everywhere!
Such diversity in potential roles can prove challenging when exploring your options. This collection of career profiles enables you to see what others in your position chose to do, why and how they made the move, and what they most enjoy about their job. You will get a feel for their daily activities, workplace culture and work-life balance.Top tip: Look out for authors’ insights into which skills developed during or after their PhD proved helpful in getting their job, and performing well there. You’ll be encouraged to see how people are building on their research expertise to thrive in newer roles.And don’t miss the “employer bio” at the end of each career profile for careers opportunities in each organisation.
Recent profiles
Luc Bonneau
Head of R&D at NBPOL and PNGOPRAExperience comes with time, so pace yourself and don’t be afraid to push yourself.
Dimitri Varsamis
Senior Policy Lead at NHS EnglandTry your best to grasp the basics, but don’t be afraid to admit gaps that are likely in a non-industry person; instead focus on transferable skills and experience.
Daniel Herde
Data Scientist at causaLensWhile academic work is very intellectually stimulating, I appreciated the more immediate impact that can be achieved by working in industry.
Sumiti Saharan
Research and Design Director at AvegenI miss neuroscience. I knew I would miss it even when I made my decision to move on. That said, I have found myself using the same mental research and problem-solving faculties in my current job, even though it has no link to neuroscience.
Anita Blakeston
Projects Manager at Surgical MedTech CooperativeMy take-home message to anyone is always to be realistic and recognise who and what you are and to follow that.
Amy Bilderbeck
Senior Scientist at P1vital LtdI most enjoy the feeling of being a competent, trusted, and an empowered member of my team; capable and effectual in helping us to achieve the goals that we set.
James Cooper
Research Leader at CGGA Ph.D. is about much more than demonstrating problem solving and analytical abilities. Learning to collaborate and communicate effectively with others is a key aspect of research, both in academia and the workplace.
Burcu Anil Kirmizitas
Medical Writer at Ogilvy HealthworldIf you have doubts about whether academia is for you, don’t wait too long thinking “What if I stay a bit longer?” to see if those doubts subside.
Sam Wills
Economist at Rokos Capital ManagementWhen you are deciding on what your goalposts will be, speak to as many people as you can to get a feel for what’s out there.
Giulia Spinato
Systems Engineer at SESMy motto is ‘always choose the hardest battle, never stop looking for the unbeaten path’.
Katherine Fletcher
Research Communications Officer at Parkinson’s UKBe proactive and nurture your skills outside of the lab. Think about your career options early, so you have time to build your CV. Think about what motivates you and follow what you enjoy.