Sue Aitken
Associate at Genesis AnalyticsIt is actually true that you can love what you do! But it is important to find the place that is right for you, and therein lies the trick!
A collection of profiles of people who have made the transition from academia to industry.
Explore a collection of profiles from researchers pursuing careers beyond academia.
This website is edited by a group of DPhil students and researchers connected to Oxford University.
See how you can contribute to the Research Careers: Options Beyond Academia project.
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.
It is actually true that you can love what you do! But it is important to find the place that is right for you, and therein lies the trick!
Always think about what you can offer to others, and be prepared to market your skills and strengths accordingly.
Being able to recognise when the changes requested are science-led and when there has simply been poor project management is very beneficial.
Transitioning out of academia is not easy–it takes time but find a way to use your skills and training for whatever is next.
The skills you have are highly valued, but a positive can-do attitude is just as important.
Based on my own experience and that of my DPhil friends, it’s much easier to transition into non-academic roles than I ever thought it would be.
I’m very glad I did a PhD. Going through the experience made me a much better teacher.
If you want to make the transition, do a lot of soul searching to figure out which skills you have that are marketable and if they are sufficient to reach your goal
Every week is different and I have always enjoyed the variety of medical writing.
As a young student, I had dreams of combining my passion for art with my interest in science.
Working in a private Sector that provides value to the world by connecting people is very rewarding.
Don’t be put off if you are not sure what you want to do and take opportunities if they present themselves.
The views and opinions expressed in these profiles are those of the individual writer and not of the editorial team, the Careers Service, or other members of the University of Oxford.
If you’re a DPhil student or member of research staff at the University of Oxford, you can join the editorial team! Please contact us to find out more.