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.
Try 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.
While academic work is very intellectually stimulating, I appreciated the more immediate impact that can be achieved by working in industry.
I 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.
My take-home message to anyone is always to be realistic and recognise who and what you are and to follow that.
I 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.
A 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.
If 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.
My motto is ‘always choose the hardest battle, never stop looking for the unbeaten path’.
It’s very rewarding working directly with patients and exploring their experiences on different treatments. I also love the collaborative atmosphere and working across multiple areas, as you gain a lot of experience over a relatively short period of time.
It is great to be part of something where the progress is really tangible and your contributions really do seem to make a difference. I most enjoy the sense of reward when we overcome a difficult problem or successfully bring together technologies we’ve developed.
My advice for researchers leaving academia would be: do not be afraid! There are many varied roles out there – more than you realise!
There are plenty of (paid!) chances to see what the world of Policy is like, and researchers are welcomed with open arms.