Life after the PhD: Walking the tightrope without a safety net

Life after the PhD: Walking the tightrope without a safety net

Theresa Mercer

Centre for Adaptive Science and Sustainability,

University of Hull

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Life After the PhD| 10 February 2011| 2

Student Researcher

My Background


Education

• BSc (Hons) Environmental Science (UEA)

• MSc Environmental Management (Sunderland)

• PhD Environmental Geochemistry (Hull)

Work Experience

• PhD – research assistant – HYDRALAB

• Postdoc research assistant - CASS

Rollercoaster of EmotionsPhilips and Pugh (1998) - PhD


1. Enthusiasm

2. Isolation

3. InterestIndependence

4. BoredomFrustration

5. A job to be Finished

6. Euphoria

Safety Net = Supervisor

Rollercoasters do not suit me!!


Rollercoaster of EmotionsTransition from student to researcher


1. Euphoria

2. Tiredness

3. Job hunting 5. Insecurities Rejection

6. Moving On4. First Job

1. Euphoria




1. Euphoria

2. Tiredness



2. Tiredness




1. Euphoria

2. Tiredness



3. Job Hunting


• Suddenly realise that you are all alone in the big wide world and it’s time to get a job!

• The world may be your oyster but you still have to go after the opportunities and this can be a scary and difficult journey

• Use your networks (PhD)

• Apply for related jobs – tailor your work and get good at selling your work



1. Euphoria

2. Tiredness



4. First Post-doc Job


• Started at the end of the PhD• Short-term contracts (post-doc)• Independence



1. Euphoria

2. Tiredness



5. Insecurities/Rejections


• Do I deserve title of ‘Dr’?

• Similar insecurities as with PhD

– new skills/knowledge

• Supervisor

• Rejections

What Really Counts:

• Funding grants• Publications• Collaboration• Invited presentations



1. Euphoria

2. Tiredness



6. Moving On


• Move onto next job/project

• On your way

• Not at this stage yet

Nature Careers (3rd, February 2011)‘Taking The Plunge’

Laura Bonetta

• Many life scientists complete more than one postdoc before finding a permanent position.• Career position• Additional training• Interests• Lack of funding (project money)

Theresa’s Top Tips 1


• Start job applications early

• Start the publishing process early

• Develop a thick skin

• Keep in touch with your contacts from your PhD and expand on this network

• Try and get involved in all you can

• Keep your independence

Theresa’s Top Tips 2


• Get involved in a mentoring scheme

• Attend training events – research/development (continuing skills)

MOST IMPORTANTLY

• Enjoy your experience and the transition

• You will miss being a PhD student

• Reflect on your journey

Useful Websites for Researchers


• Vitae (section for researchers) http://www.vitae.ac.uk/researchers/1269/Research-staff.html

• UK Research Staff Association

• Postgraduate Toolbox (http://www.postgraduatetoolbox.net/site/index)

• Postgraduate Forum (http://www.postgraduateforum.com/home.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1)

• Graduate Junction (http://www.graduatejunction.net/)

• Post Doc Career Initiative (http://www.pcdi.nl/)

• UK MentorSET (http://www.mentorset.org.uk/)

Any questions?

Email: [email protected]

Life after the PhD: Walking the tightrope without a safety net

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