PODCAST · business
PostPhDirections
by Elena Hoffer
The podcast features PhDs who’ve successfully transitioned into industry, along with deans of doctoral education, hiring managers, and recruiters. We explore how PhD holders can find fulfilling careers outside of academia and make the shift smoothly. Each episode dives into personal journeys, practical tips, and the resources available to support your transition, offering invaluable insights for anyone looking to take their skills beyond academic research and into the professional world. Tune in and discover your next step!
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Why PhDs aim too low in their job search and how to fix It, with Emily Richard, PhD
Are you applying to junior roles because you think you need to prove yourself before you can aim higher?In this episode of PostPhDirections, I sit down with Emily Richard, a cognitive neuroscience PhD who is now a Data Science Lead at AG Associates, working on veteran suicide prevention. When Emily started her industry job search, she did what so many PhDs do she aimed too low. She kept applying to entry-level roles, convinced she needed to earn her place first. What changed everything was realising that her PhD, her decade-plus of research experience, and her leadership background already qualified her for senior-level positions. Once she shifted her targets, everything clicked.Emily's story is a powerful reminder that choosing a job outside of academia doesn't mean giving up meaningful, mission-driven work and that your PhD already qualifies you for more than you think.We talk about:Why PhDs almost always underestimate the level they should be targetingHow one conversation with Angela completely reframed what Emily had to offerWhy your academic experience counts as real work experience — even when you don't believe it doesWhat skills Emily had been overlooking that actually qualified her for senior and leadership rolesHow she landed a role she genuinely loves — leading data science on veteran suicide preventionWhy aiming too low might actually be the reason you're not hearing backThe best job search advice you'll hear: treat every application and rejection like a data pointIf you're a PhD wondering what level to target or quietly convinced you need to start at the bottom then this conversation will change how you see yourself.Connect with Emily Richard on LinkedInLearn more about Alma.me and our Job Accelerator Program: www.alma.meFollow Elena on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTokIf you found this helpful, share it with a fellow researcher who might be underselling themselves — and please leave us a review. It's the easiest way to help other PhDs find this podcast. 💙
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What does the 2026 job market actually look like for PhDs — and what do you need to do differently to stand out, with Angla Priest
In this episode of PostPhDirections, I'm joined by my co-founder Angela Priest, who brings over 20 years of hiring experience across startups and big cooperates. We get into everything you need to know about the current job market — the honest, behind-the-scenes version.We cover:Why uncertainty has become the new normal for employers — and what that means for your job searchThe AI shift: what "AI native" means in job descriptions and why it matters for youWhy your data fluency is one of the most in-demand skills right now (and why most PhDs don't even realize they have it)The hottest roles for STEM PhDs in 2026: AI/ML, health tech, biotech & clinical researchThe #1 skill listed in 85% of job descriptions — and why PhDs often struggle with itHow to make interviewers actually want to hire you (the unspoken criteria nobody talks about)Why communication in industry means something completely different than it does in academiaIf you're a PhD or postdoc thinking about making the leap, this episode is full of raw, practical insight from someone who's spent decades in the hiring room.Connect with Angela Priest on LinkedInLearn more about Alma.me and our Job Accelerator Program: Follow Elena on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.If you found this helpful, share it with a fellow researcher — and please leave us a review. It's the easiest way to help other PhDs find this podcast. 💙
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How to use coffee chats to land your industry job after a PhD (Step-by-Step for PhDs)
What if I told you one of the most powerful tools for landing your first industry job is completely free, takes 30 minutes, and most PhDs aren't using it?I'm talking about coffee chats (aka informational interviews – but let's keep it casual).When I was halfway through my PhD at Karolinska Institutet, I had that constant background noise: "What can I do after my PhD? Where do my skills fit? What if I don't want to stay at the bench?"Starting conversations with people who'd already made the jump changed everything for me.In this episode, you'll learn:Why coffee chats are my absolute favorite free tool for career transitionsThe two main reasons PhDs should be doing these (and neither is "asking for a job")Three strategies for finding people to talk to – even with zero networkThe outreach message formula that actually gets responses (with examples)What questions to ask that can't be GoogledHow one PhD got a referral from a single coffee chatWhy "not everyone will reply" is totally normal (and what to do about it)Here's the truth: You can read hundreds of job descriptions about data science or medical science liaison roles and still have no idea what it actually feels like to do the job. That information only comes from real people working in industry.Stop sitting alone with your laptop feeling overwhelmed. Start having real conversations.Your challenge this week: Reach out to ONE person and ask for ONE coffee chat. That's it. Share in the comments how it goes!Ready for more support? Check out our Learning Platform (48-hour free trial) or Job Accelerator Program at www.alma.meFollow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTokYou got this 💙
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Does my first industry job after my PhD have to be perfect?
Does your first job after your PhD have to be perfect? Spoiler: No.If you're finishing your PhD and stressing about finding the "perfect" industry job, this episode is for you. I break down why PhDs overthink this decision, how industry actually works (hint: you're NOT locked in for 5 years), and what really matters in your first role.You'll hear:Why the "perfect job" mindset comes from academic trainingHow industry turnaround times work (2 years is normal!)A real story: PhD who pivoted after just 9 monthsWhat to do if you don't like your first jobWhy your first role is a stepping stone, not a destinationYour first job just needs to get you into industry. That's it. Stop overthinking and start moving forward.Ready to make your transition? Check out our Job Accelerator Program at www.alma.meFollow me on Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Tiktok
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Is my PhD work experience by Elena Hoffer
Is your PhD work experience when applying for industry jobs? This is one of the most common questions PhDs ask when transitioning out of academia.In this video, I explain why the real issue isn’t a lack of work experience, but a misunderstanding of what industry actually means by “experience.” Industry employers care about applied skills, problem-solving, collaboration, communication, and delivering outcomes—all of which you develop extensively during a PhD.You’ll learn:What work experience really means in industryWhy a PhD is applied professional experience, not “just education”How PhDs already solve real-world problems under uncertaintyWhere your PhD belongs on your CV/resumeHow to frame your PhD experience in a way industry understandsIf you’re a PhD student, postdoc, or academic considering a move to industry, this video will help you stop underselling yourself and start positioning your experience with confidence.👉 Key takeaway: Your PhD is work experience - 100%. You just need to frame it the right way. Learn here howFollow me on LinkedIn, Instagram and TiktokAnd if you need more support check out our work at www.alma.me
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Choosing stability over prestige with Dr. Sophia Parks
In this episode of PostPhDirections, Sophia Parks shares her journey from a decade in academia - spanning a PhD and two postdocs, including at Stanford - to a remote industry role in project management. Despite strong credentials and years of grant-writing experience, Sophia found herself trapped in a system defined by funding uncertainty, external validation, and limited control over her future. After repeated grant rejections, job instability, and growing burnout - amplified by becoming a mother - she realized academia was no longer sustainable for the life she wanted.After months of unsuccessfully applying to hundreds of industry roles on her own, Sophia joined the Alma.me Job Accelerator program, where she learned to reframe her academic experience and communicate her value in a new way. Within weeks, she transitioned into industry. Looking back, she reflects on the deeper shift behind the move: releasing the belief that worth is tied to academic achievement and reclaiming agency over her time, energy, and career direction.If you want to follow Sophias post academic life you can do that on Instagram where she runs an account focused on her new life in industry. If you want to stay in touch with me (Elena) the best way to do so is via LinkedIn, Instagram or Tiktok.And if you are looking for more hands on support check the Alma.Me website and see how we can help.
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Breaking Into Pharma after your PhD - what hiring managers are really looking for with Ben Weber, PhD
Looking to break into Pharma after your PhD?Learn first-hand from someone who has hired across the US and multiple European countries how to ace the transition from academia into industry and stand out from the crowd.In this episode of PostPhDirections, I spoke with Ben Weber, Vice President of Translational Research at Novo Nordisk, about how PhDs can successfully transition from academia into the pharmaceutical industry. Drawing on his global career and hiring experience, Ben discusses how the Pharma job market has evolved, which skills are currently in demand, and why understanding the Pharma R&D value chain is essential. The conversation also highlights common mistakes PhDs make when applying for industry roles, the importance of tailored applications, and how communication, networking, and self-awareness can make the difference when building a career beyond academia.If you need more hands on support in your transition Alma.me is here to help. Check how we can help here on our website.Check out Ben on LinkedIn , and give him a follow.
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Breaking into Pharma after your PhD - what hiring managers are looking for with Ben Weber
Looking to break into Pharma after your PhD? Learn first-hand from someone who has hired across the US and multiple European countries how to ace the transition from academia into industry and stand out from the crowd.In this episode of PostPhDirections, I speak with Ben Weber, Vice President of Translational Research at Novo Nordisk, about how PhDs can successfully transition from academia into the pharmaceutical industry. Drawing on his global career and hiring experience, Ben discusses how the pharma job market has evolved, which skills are currently in demand, and why understanding the pharma R&D value chain is essential. The conversation also highlights common mistakes PhDs make when applying for industry roles, the importance of tailored applications, and how communication, networking, and self-awareness can make the difference when building a career beyond academia.Are you looking for more support to make that transition check out how Alma.me can helpGive Benjamin Weber a follow on LinkedIn
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From PhD in Public Health to Data Scientist: This is how Dr. Kertu Tenso carved her own path out
When I came across one of Kertu Tenso’s posts on Instagram, I knew I had to talk to her. She’s a data scientist today—but what makes her story so powerful is how early she started preparing for that transition while still doing her PhD. In this episode, I chat with Kertu about how she carved her own path from public health research into data science, even when people told her it wasn’t possible. We talk about clarity, proactivity, and the courage it takes to design the career you actually want—before you even graduate. If you’re a PhD wondering how to prepare for life beyond academia, Kertu’s story will show you just how much is possible when you start early and believe in yourself.Need more support in your own transition check how Alma.me can helpFollow Elena Hoffer on LinkedIn and InstagramFollow Kertu Tenso on Instagram
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From Lab to Scientific Marketing: Finding an Unexpected Career Path After the PhD with Amy Turner
In this episode of PostPhDirections, I sit down with Amy Turner, who shares her story of moving from academia into a dynamic role in scientific marketing at Proteintech.Amy talks about how she found clarity after her PhD, why taking a short break helped her gain perspective, and how a complete LinkedIn profile — not a huge following — led to her being headhunted for her first industry role. She also opens up about what it’s really like to work in scientific marketing, how she uses her research background every day, and what skills she had to learn along the way.We also talk about Proteintech’s Field Marketing Representative program, which gives PhD students a hands-on glimpse into industry life. Amy’s story is a great reminder that you can build a fulfilling career beyond academia — one that still lets you stay close to science, but with a whole new kind of impact.If you’re curious about how to translate your academic experience into an industry role, or you’re simply wondering what’s possible outside the lab, this episode is for you.Follow for daily career insights : Elena Hoffer, PhD LinkedIn@elenahoffer_phd InstagramFollow Amy's LinkedIn If you need more hands on support check our job accelerator program: Alma.Me Job Accelerator Program
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Why Companies Need Humanities PhDs with Dr. Larry McGrath
In this episode of PostPhDirections, I speak with Dr. Larry McGrath, a historian and anthropologist who made the leap from academia to tech—now working as a senior researcher at Amazon Prime Video, with previous roles at Meta. Larry shares how humanities PhDs can translate their deep research skills, cult into real business impact.We talk about his career pivot, how he helps other academics transition into industry, and why leaving academia doesn’t mean leaving scholarship behind. Larry also offers practical tips on learning to “speak business,” building career clarity, and navigating this shift without losing your academic identity. If you're wondering how your humanities training fits into the business world, this episode will give you insight—and inspiration.For support in your own transition check our Alma.Me Job Accelerator Program Follow Larry on LinkedIn and check his website for more info
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How to Market Yourself in Today's Job Market with Stacey Cohen
In this episode of PostPhDirections, Angela Priest, COO of Alma.me, sits down with Stacey Cohen—marketing strategist, founder of Co-Communications, and author of Brand Up 2.0. Stacey unpacks the essential elements of personal branding for early-career professionals, especially those transitioning from academia to industry.From debunking the myth that branding is narcissistic to explaining how to turn your skills into a standout value proposition, Stacey shares actionable insights for job seekers navigating a crowded and algorithm-driven job market. Learn why “spray and pray” no longer works, how to make your digital footprint work for you, and why likability, enthusiasm, and curiosity are more powerful than a perfect resume.Whether you're wondering how to differentiate yourself, struggling with how to authentically present your strengths, or simply want to understand how hiring managers think, this episode is packed with strategies you can apply today.If you like the episode please leave us a review so that other PhDs can find it more easily.Connect with Elena, Angela or Stacey here on LinkedIn.Need some support in your job search? Check out how Alma.Me can support you.
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Built in the Dark: How a PhD Side Project Became a Global Biotech Company with Dr. Philipp Baaske
In this episode, I talk with Philipp Baaske, a physicist and the co-founder of NanoTemper Technologies. What started as a failed PhD project in a dark LMU lab turned into a side experiment - and eventually into a global biotech company that’s transforming drug discovery.Philipp shared how he made the leap from academia to entrepreneurship, why bootstrapping was the best business education, and how personal motivation drove him to build tools that now help thousands of scientists worldwide. If you’re a PhD wondering how to turn your research into real-world impact, this one’s for you.Connect with Philipp on LinkedIn and check this website. Follow Angela and Elena for daily PhD career insights.If you need help in landing a job in industry after your PhD, check how Alma.Me can help. If you enjoy this episode please leave us a review- it is a great way to help other PhDs to discover this podcast more easily.
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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.
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How Authenticity landed Jorge a Job in Industry with Dr. Jorge Quintana
In this episode of PostPhDirections, I talk with Jorge Quintana, a macroeconomist who made what he calls a “transition squared” — moving from academia to industry and from Europe to the U.S. We dig into how he navigated both shifts, what made the transition challenging, and how he learned to show up not just as a qualified candidate, but as a whole person.Jorge shares how practicing interviews, shifting from technical explanations to outcome-driven stories, and embracing his personality helped him land a role in model risk management. If you're a PhD wondering how to bridge the gap between research and industry, this conversation offers real, relatable insight.If you like this episode please leave us a review. It's and easy zero cost way to support our efforts, and help other PhDs find the podcast more easily. Connect with Elena and Angela.Follow or connect with Jorge.Check out our Alma.Me Accelerator ProgramJoin our vibrant community here.
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What If You Didn’t Have to Pick Just One Career Path with Dr. Ana Osório Oliveira
In this episode, I sat down with Ana Osorio Oliveira - a neuroscientist, career advisor, and startup contributor - whose career shows that you don’t have to choose between staying in research and exploring other passions. Ana shares how she built a fulfilling and flexible "portfolio career," combining neuroscience with science communication, career support, and even a past life as a Zumba instructor.If you're like many PhDs - still loving research but feeling the itch to try something more - this episode is for you. Ana talks honestly about what helped her stay energized, how she learned to balance multiple roles, and why giving yourself permission to explore might be the most important step in your post-PhD journeyConnect with Ana via LinkedIn.Need some support in your own transition check out our accelerator program and how we can help beyond. If you enjoyed this podcast please leave us a review and follow the show.
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How a coffee chat led to a career shift: Conversations that can change your career with Dr. Ellen Dobson
In this episode of PostPhDirections, I chatted with Dr. Ellen Dobson, postdoc and grad program manager at the Morgridge Institute for Research, about how casual coffee chats can lead to career clarity-and even a job. From walking away from the lab bench to helping researchers design fulfilling futures, Ellen shares how informational interviews shaped her own path and why they’re a must for any early career researcher considering a move beyond academia. Packed with practical tips and honest reflections, this conversation is your permission to reach out, get curious, and start building the career you actually want.Follow Elena and Ellen on LinkedIn for more career insights. For more networking in a low pressure environment join our community waitlist- we open the doors in two weeks!Follow the podcast so you do not miss any episode and if you are enjoying the podcast please leave a review (would mean the world to me:))
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I hit 100K on LinkedIn-and here’s exactly how I did It
In this raw and unscripted solo episode, I’m sharing my personal journey of how I built a 100K+ LinkedIn community-starting from a place of fear, doubt, and zero strategy. I talk about what truly worked for me, how I overcame the anxiety of posting that first piece of content, and the mindset shifts that changed everything. I’ll walk you through the power of authentic engagement, the importance of finding your voice, and why showing up (even imperfectly) can lead to unexpected opportunities. If you’ve ever felt stuck, scared, or just unsure where to start on LinkedIn, this episode is for you. I'm here to show you that if I could do it, so can you.Follow me on LinkedIn for daily career inspiration
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Reality of of the job hunt beyond academia with Dr. Claudia Belliveau
Transitioning from academia to industry isn’t easy-just ask Claudia Belliveau, PhD. In this episode of PostPhDirections, we dive deep into the challenges, strategies, and mindset shifts needed to break into the pharmaceutical industry. Claudia, did a PhD in neuroscience PhD and is currently a job seeker. Claudia shares her real-time experience, insider tips on networking, and how informational interviews transformed her job search. Whether you're planning your exit from academia or stuck in the transition phase, this episode is packed with practical advice and candid insights to help you move forward. 🚀🎙️Follow Claudia on Instagram where she inspires more than 80K people everyday. Because the job hunt is challenging and sometimes it is hard to keep track of, Claudia developed a Notion dashboard to keep track of all the positions you applied for. Get it here. Follow the founders of Alma.Me, Angela and Elena on LinkedIn for a daily dose of inspiration. As always if you enjoyed this episode please leaves us a review and share it with friends who might benefit from it
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Should I be on LinkedIn as an academic with Prof. Robert Harris
In this episode, I chat with Professor Robert (Bob) Harris - also known as MADBob (Making a difference) - about his quite impressive journey on LinkedIn. Bob talks his social media literacy, what made him getting started on LinkedIn, and how he's used LinkedIn to share valuable insights on doctoral education and supervisor training. We discuss the powerful impact his posts have had on a global audience, the art of storytelling, and how he’s built a vibrant community of like-minded professionals. It’s a conversation about the unique role LinkedIn plays in sparking meaningful discussions and connecting academics worldwide. And it gives you some actionable tips on how YOU can get started on your own LinkedIn journey. May it be through content creation or simply engaging with others. As always, if you have learnt something today please leave us a review, so others can find our podcast more easily.Follow Bob here on LinkedIn for more inspiration on PhD education, supervisor training and leadership in academia. For more daily inspiration on career development follow Elena on LinkedIn.If you need more support in your transition from academia to industry, check our Alma.Me website and see how we can help.
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The most common resume/CV mistakes PhDs make with Angela Priest
In this episode, I sit down with Angela Priest to talk about some of the most common mistakes we see in resumes and CVs. We dive into why tailoring your application to the job is so important and how a resume isn’t just a list of accomplishments - it’s a tool to get you an interview.We also chat about how to communicate your skills clearly, especially when transitioning from academia to industry. Many PhDs struggle to explain their experience in a way that makes sense to hiring managers, and Angela shares some great tips on how to highlight your qualifications in a way that gets noticed.If you’ve been sending out resumes and not hearing back, this episode is for you! 🎧Follow Angela and Elena on LinkedIn for a daily does of career transition insights. Follow Elena on Instagram and TikTok If you found this episode insightful please leave us a review to help other PhDs find our Podcast more easily. THANK YOU!
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How to land a job in Pharma R&D with Dr. Andrea Grandi
Join me as I sit down with Dr. Andrea Grandi to talk about the challenges and strategies of moving from academia to the pharmaceutical R&D industry.We explore what it really takes to break into the field- how you can streamline your approach and focus on the right goals. Andrea shares his insider knowledge on landing R&D roles, the power of networking, and the key skills PhDs can leverage to thrive in industry. We also discuss the importance of mentorship, crafting strong job applications, and, most importantly, finding the right company fit. If you're navigating this transition, you won’t want to miss this episode! This episode is packed with actionable advice for you to make the transition into Pharma. Connect with Andrea on LinkedIn. Make sure to connect with Angela and Elena on LinkedIn, the founders of Alma.me. Follow us on Instagram.If you are struggling in your transition and want some more support check our website and see how we can help.
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How to break into Medical Writing after PhD with Dr. Vicky Sherwood
In this conversation, I, sit down with Vicky Sherwood to explore the world of medical writing and how PhDs can successfully transition from academia into a medical writer role (yes there is more than one ;) learn more here). Vicky shares her own journey into medical writing and the different roles within the field. Vicky explained the differences between various specialisations within medical writing. Having worked as a hiring manager at a major Swiss pharma company, Vicky also shares what makes an application stand out and what she looked for in candidates. She explains why PhDs are highly competitive candidates for these positions and highlights the transferable skills they bring from their research experience that are highly valued in the industry. Vicky also emphasizes the power of networking, especially on LinkedIn, and provides practical advice for PhDs considering a career in medical writing. If you're a PhD exploring career options beyond academia, this conversation is packed with valuable insights! If you enjoyed this episode please leave us a review to help other PhDs find this Podcast more easily. -------------------------------------------------------- Connect and follow Vicky on LinkedIn. Check out her newsletter and free e-book on how to break into medical writing. Follow Angela and me on LinkedIn for a daily dose of career related content. Check our website on how we can support you in your job hunt.
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Job Descriptions: Myths and Realities with Angela Priest
In this conversation, Angela and I delve into the topic of self-limiting beliefs, particularly among PhDs transitioning into industry roles, alongside Angela Priest. We discuss common misconceptions about job descriptions, the overqualification dilemma, and the importance of collaboration and continuous learning in the workplace. Angela highlights that job descriptions are more like guidelines than strict rules and explains how candidates often misinterpret the qualifications required. Together, we emphasize the need for PhDs to embrace a growth mindset, recognizing that it’s okay not to meet every criterion and that learning on the job is part of the process.
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Find a job that truly aligns with your goals with Dr. Kirsten Thornhill
In this conversation, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kirsten Thornhill, PhD, about her inspiring journey transitioning from academia to industry. Kirsten shared her personal experiences, the challenges she faced, and the strategies that helped her navigate this major career change successfully. We talked about the importance of having a growth mindset, building a strong network, and being willing to start fresh in a new field. Kirsten’s story serves as a motivational guide for anyone considering a similar path, demonstrating the potential for fulfillment and success outside of academia. During our conversation, Kirsten opened up about the key elements of her transition, from the significance of networking and the challenges of job hunting to the art of effectively communicating transferable skills. She emphasized the power of informational interviews and peer feedback in refining her resume and identifying her strengths. Kirsten also reflected on the role of ego in the transition process, sharing how she overcame feelings of inadequacy when applying for jobs. Her insights offer actionable advice for PhDs navigating their own career paths and looking to take their next steps with confidence. If you liked that episode please leave us a review here so other PhDs can find us more easily. If you need support in your transition from academia to industry check our Alma.me website and see how we can help. Connect with Kirsten on LinkedIn. For more daily inspiration connect with Elena and Angela on LinkedIn.
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How to build your own career path after a PhD with Dr. Alda Sabalic
In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Alda Sabalic about her journey from completing a PhD in biophysics to becoming a successful science communication consultant. We talk about how she identified where her passion lies and how she turned it into a business.We explored how she discovered her passion for teaching and simplifying complex scientific concepts, why her work is needed and how she identified that need, and the transferable skills gained through a PhD that apply to the business world. Alda shared her insights on the importance of resilience, self-reflection, and adaptability in navigating career paths, and she encouraged listeners to recognize and embrace the value of their own experiences and skills.If you enjoyed the episode, please follow the show and leave a review. It will help other academics discover the podcast more easily.If you need help and support in your own transition journey check out our website and see how we can help.We also just launched our accelerator job program. More details about it here.Follow and connect with Alda on LinkedIn.Thank you for listening!
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PhDs in Entrepreneurship: Exploring the Cornell Tech Runway Startup Postdoc Program with Fernando Gomez-Baquero
Summary:In this episode of PostPhDirections, I sit down with Fernando Gomez-Baquero, the Director of the Runway Startup Postdoc Program at Cornell Tech, to explore how PhDs can transition from academia to entrepreneurship. Fernando shares his journey from earning a PhD to becoming a CEO and how the CornellTech Runway Startup program supports researchers in building their own startups. We talk about the financial backing, mentorship, and structured curriculum participants receive, and why embracing failure, storytelling, and speed are critical in the entrepreneurial process. If you’ve ever thought about commercializing your research or taking an unconventional career path, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration for taking that next step. Apply to the program here:
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The Power of Personality in Job Applications and in the Job with Angela Priest
In this conversation, Angela Priest and I discuss how to effectively showcase one's personality in job applications, the importance of finding a work environment that aligns with one's authentic self, and strategies for navigating different corporate cultures. How to answer the question 'Tell me about yourself'. We discuss the significance of authenticity and personality in the workplace, particularly for PhDs transitioning into industry roles. Our discussion also touches on the challenges of being authentic in professional settings and the value of self-awareness in fostering genuine connections with colleagues. If you enjoyed this episode please leave us a review so that other academics can find our podcast easier. If you are looking for more support in your transition into a non academic position, check out website how we can help. For more daily inspiration on the transition from PhD into industry follow Angela or me on LinkedIn. You can find us also on Instagram and Tiktok.
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A day in a life of a Patent Consultant with Dr. Asraa Ziadi
In this episode of 'A Day in a Life of a Patent Consultant' , I chat with Asraa Ziadi, a patent consultant, about her journey from academia to the patent profession. We discuss the skills needed for patent consultancy, the daily responsibilities of a patent consultant, and the impact of this profession on innovation. Asraa shares her experiences transitioning from a PhD in chemistry to her current role, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and the diverse backgrounds of those entering the field.Enjoy listening. If you like it, please leave us a review and follow the show.If you want to see how Alma.Me can help you in your transition, check our website here.Follow me on for daily inspirations on the transition into a non academic job LinkedIn, Instagram, or TikTokFollow Asraa on LinkedIn.
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Should I stay or should I go? And how Armando knew it was time to leave academia with Dr. Armando Cázares-Körner
In this episode, I speak with Armando Casares-Körner, PhD. We talk about the Sunk Cost Fallacy, especially after publishing in Science. Lots of academics ask themselves 'When is it time to leave?'. We discuss whether he ever felt the pull of the sunk cost fallacy and what his deciding factors were not to continue an academic career despite having all the academic merits to do so.We also talk about the impact of family on career choices and the importance of finding alignment between personal values and professional life. Additionally, we discuss how the skills he gained during his PhD have shaped his current role as the Head of Community at The Park, a co-working space. Our discussion emphasizes the significance of reflection and adaptability in navigating career transitions.Enjoy listening. If you liked the episode please leave us a review :)Need help in your career? Check our homepage https://www.alma.me/Connect with Armando on LinkedIn and check out The Park
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Understanding your Skills Beyond Subject Matter Expertise with Dr. Jens Gertow
In this episode, I sat down with Jens Gertow, CCO at Mabtech, to discuss his journey from PhD to a successful career in industry. Jens shares how he landed his first role by highlighting not only the skills gained during his PhD, but also those developed through everyday life experiences.We explore how to identify transferable skills beyond the lab. Jens story is a nice example why telling a compelling story about your unique skill set can make all the difference in landing a job.Want to know how I can help you land a job outside academia? Check the Alma.Me websiteWant to know more about Mabtech? Check the website here
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Prof. Robert Harris on the Need for Modernising Career Development during PhD Education
In this episode of the PostPhDirections, I speak with Professor Robert (Bob) Harris, Academic Vice President of doctoral education at K about the role of universities in preparing PhD graduates for their careers. We discuss the evolving career trajectories for PhDs, the challenges faced during the transition from academia, and the role of universities in career preparation. Bob shares insights from his experience at Karolinska Institutet, highlighting the importance of soft skills and the need for universities to modernize their approach to career development for academics. We talk about the importance of proactive career planning and the need for a mindset shift among both PhD students and university leadership. Robert Harris Follow Robert Harris on LinkedIn. Bob writes about PhD education and supervision. He is there to Make A Difference (MAD). If you don't want to miss any of his post from the MADBob series follow #MADBob on LinkedIn. Bob has trained +8000 supervisors and offers leadership training for academics. Questions about training: [email protected] If you are interested in Bob's science check out his website
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The impact of networking in building a career with Angela Priest
Hear in this episode why meeting Angela was better than winning the lottery and how we met? In this very first episode of PostPhDirections I talk to Angela Priest, my co- founder and business partner of Alma.Me. We address one of the most asked questions 'How did you two meet considering Angela lives in the US and Elena in Sweden?'. We talk about our individual stories and how these brought us together and led to co-founding Alma.Me. We talk about common challenges PhDs and Postdocs encounter during their transition to a career post-graduation, and how Alma.me is working to solve these challenges.Enjoy listening and if you like it leave us a review :)Elena, CEO and Chief inspiration officer @Alma.Me
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
The podcast features PhDs who’ve successfully transitioned into industry, along with deans of doctoral education, hiring managers, and recruiters. We explore how PhD holders can find fulfilling careers outside of academia and make the shift smoothly. Each episode dives into personal journeys, practical tips, and the resources available to support your transition, offering invaluable insights for anyone looking to take their skills beyond academic research and into the professional world. Tune in and discover your next step!
HOSTED BY
Elena Hoffer
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