Finding employment after a PhD Job seeking
The academic sector is very competitive – you need to be highly motivated and committed to be successful in gaining a post. There are few permanent research posts available so your application needs to be as strong as possible. To maximise your chances of success, here are some tips to get your started.
Keep in touch with academics in your field
Let them know you’re looking for a job. If you’re still completing your PhD, let them know when you’re due to finish. They may have a vacancy coming up, or they may be applying for funding that provides an opportunity in their research group. This kind of informal approach is very common in academia.
Update and share your academic CV
Make sure you've included full details of your research, publications and teaching. Share your CV with your referees to inform any reference they provide for you.
Research who to approach and contact them
Be clear about who you're approaching and how your knowledge and experience will fit in with the expertise of their department.
Tips for looking for non-academic jobs
You can of course apply for jobs outside your field of academic expertise: 70% of graduate jobs are open to applicants of any discipline. More than 50% of PhD graduates work outside the higher education sector after gaining their research degree.
If you want to work outside academia, refocus your applications and make your CV a shorter, ‘non-specialist’ document which highlights your transferable skills.
