What Really Matters When Breaking Into Amazon After a PhD – with Dr. Irena Palamani Xhuxhi

In this episode of PostPhDirections, we talk with IrenaPalamani Xhuxhi, an AI Tech Lead at Amazon, about her inspiring journey from academia to the tech industry. Irena shares how she managed a PhD in economics while raising two children, applied to nearly 70 jobs, and overcame imposter syndrome to land her role at Amazon — the only tech job she applied for.We explore the mindset shifts needed to move from research to industry, how to frame academic experience for tech roles, and why communication and adaptability matter just as much as technical skills. If you’re thinking about a career beyond academia, this episode is full of practical insights and encouragement.Connect or follow Irena on LinkedIn. Connect with Elena and Angela on LinkedIn, or on Instagram.Want to land job in industry? See how Alma.Me can help. And as usual if you enjoyed this episode please leave us a rating its a zero cost way to support the podcast and help other PhDs find it.