what phd can i do

What To Do After PhD? Get A Job? 10 Career Path For PhDs

Suppose you finished your PhD. Chances are you may be thinking about what to do after PhD. While many enter the academic world as postdocs, there are plenty of other career options too.

Career options for PhD graduates include:

• Research and Development (R&D)

Data Science

• Science Communication
• Intellectual Property and Patent Law
• Entrepreneurship

Policy Analyst

In this article, we explore the question – what do do after PhD? We look at career options for PhDs outside of academia, and how to enter these fields.

Do All PhD Holders Enter Academic Career As Postdoc?

While pursuing a PhD is often associated with a career in academia , not all graduates take this path. In fact, a growing number are venturing beyond the traditional realm of postdocs , research and teaching.

Data from recent graduate surveys reveal that less than half of PhD holders secure academic positions.

This trend is partly due to the saturation of academic job markets, where the number of PhD graduates outpaces the availability of tenure-track positions.

In fields like the life sciences and humanities, the competition for permanent academic roles is particularly fierce, prompting many to explore alternative career options.

For those who wish to bridge academia and industry, roles in research and development (R&D) offer an ideal middle ground.

Large corporations frequently hire PhD graduates to drive innovation, leveraging their expertise to create new products or improve processes.

The shift away from academia has also given rise to resources and networks aimed at helping PhDs transition to non-academic roles.

Programs like career development workshops and mentorship initiatives prepare graduates to navigate this evolving landscape, demonstrating that the value of a PhD extends far beyond the ivory tower.

Why Some PhDs Do Not Want To Be In Academia?

It’s kind of hard to imagine spending years on a dissertation, only to leave academia. But for many PhD graduates, staying in academic research feels like a losing game.

You spend years as a graduate student, juggling original research, teaching, and endless academic job applications.

Then comes the postdoctoral fellowship. It’s temporary, low-paying, and often uncertain.

You’re told it’s the “next step,” but even if it’s not your dream, you’re stuck there waiting for an academic job to open up.

What happens after a PhD is a big question. For some, it’s accepting that an academic career isn’t the only path. Especially when you’re looking at the number of PhDs competing for permanent research positions at universities.

It’s a bottleneck. And humanities graduates have it the hardest— tenure-track jobs there feel like unicorn sightings.

I’ve seen PhDs on LinkedIn pivot to non-academic careers like data science or R&D roles in industry companies. They’re not “giving up.” They’re using their critical thinking skills to develop new products or solve real-world problems.

Some even become entrepreneurs, creating startups tied to their field of study.

PhDs also grow tired of the system. Publishing a paper can feel like shouting into a void. Research groups can be rife with politics, and collaboration often feels forced.

Getting a PhD is transformative, but staying in academia isn’t for everyone. Sometimes, stepping away helps you make a better future career choice.

Non-Academic Career Options For PhD Graduates

Getting a PhD is an intense journey. It’s kind of hard to imagine what to do after a PhD, especially if you’ve spent years in academia.

But there’s a world of non-academic career options that can take your research skills and turn them into something impactful.

If you’re a PhD graduate in life science, physics, or even social sciences, data science is a hot career path.

Industry companies love hiring PhDs for their ability to manage complex datasets and make sense of patterns.

I know someone who finished their PhD in ecology but now works as a data scientist for an environmental consulting firm. They said transitioning wasn’t as hard as they thought.

You can start by learning Python or R, building a portfolio with your research project data, and going to networking events where recruiters are looking for research experience.

Research and development (R&D) isn’t just for chemists or engineers. PhDs from arts and humanities fields are finding roles in: 

• consumer behavior studies,
• market research, and even
• product development.

A friend who got their PhD in anthropology now works in R&D at a tech company, designing user experiences for apps.

They use their skills in original research and critical thinking to study how people interact with technology.

If you’re interested in research but don’t want to stay in academia, becoming a policy analyst could be a great career.

Organizations like the Higher Education Policy Institute and think tanks are often looking for PhDs.

You can use your research skills to analyze data and write reports that influence decisions on climate change, healthcare, or education.

A PhD graduate I met on LinkedIn transitioned to a policy role after completing a postdoctoral fellowship. They said having a polished CV tailored to non-academic roles was the key.

Careers in Publishing

PhDs are experts in their field of study, and that makes them perfect for careers in academic or trade publishing. If you’re willing to step out of the research group, consider editorial roles.

One PhD student I knew in the arts and humanities ended up in publishing. She reviews manuscripts and advises on publishing strategies.

If you’ve spent years publishing academic research, you already have insider knowledge of the system.

Becoming an Entrepreneur

The postdoctoral grind isn’t for everyone. Some PhDs decide to skip academic positions altogether and start their own companies.

It’s risky, but if you’re an expert in your field, the rewards can be huge.

I’ve seen someone with a Ph.D. in chemistry develop new products for green energy and turn that into a business.

Another used their dissertation research in education policy to create software that helps schools improve.

If you’ve ever wanted to do research on your own terms, entrepreneurship might be your path.

Tech and Software Engineering

PhDs in computer science or physics naturally transition into tech roles, but even if it’s not your exact field, tech companies value research experience.

A biology PhD told me they accepted an offer from a software company after learning machine learning and demonstrating their skills in side projects.

These roles let you develop products, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and stay involved in research without the pressure of academia.

Management Consulting

Management consulting firms like McKinsey, BCG, or Bain actively recruit PhDs. They know you’re great at analyzing complex problems and presenting solutions clearly.

Consulting can be a great career if you’re willing to travel and enjoy varied projects.

One former PhD I met at a networking event shared how consulting gave them a chance to apply their research skills in different industries, from healthcare to energy.

Careers in Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals

PhDs in life sciences often move into medical writing, regulatory affairs, or R&D for pharmaceutical companies.

These roles let you stay connected to your field while using your expertise to make a real-world impact.

I know someone who transitioned from postdoctoral research into a medical writing position.

They said the key was to emphasize their ability to explain complex ideas clearly on their CV and during job interviews.

Moving into Higher Education Administration

If you’ve always been involved in academia but don’t want to research and teach, consider administrative roles. You can work in:

• career development,
• grant writing, or even
• policy-making within universities.

One graduate student I knew pivoted to career counseling for PhDs. They now help others explore career options available to PhDs.

They said it was rewarding to guide others through a process they struggled with themselves.

Nonprofit and NGO Work

Nonprofits love hiring PhDs, especially if your dissertation focused on social issues. You can use your critical thinking skills and expertise to design programs or secure funding.

I met a postdoctoral researcher who left academia to work for a global NGO. They now lead research projects on climate resilience in developing countries.

They said it was the most fulfilling career path they could have imagined.

How To Transition From PhD To Non-Academic Career?

Supposed you have defended your thesis , finished your PhD and have decided what to do after PhD – not to enter the academic field. But how do you transition into academic career ?

Assess Your Skills and Interests

Take a good look at your skills. Are you great at data analysis, writing, or collaboration? Think about what excites you beyond your dissertation.

PhDs often have critical thinking skills that are highly transferable.

One life science PhD told me they never thought about data science until they noticed how much coding they’d done during their research project. That realization led to a job in industry.

Tailor Your CV

Your academic CV won’t work for non-academic jobs. Employers want to see how your skills translate into their field of interest. Use bullet points that emphasize outcomes, not just tasks.

A PhD graduate I met rewrote their CV to highlight project management and problem-solving from their PhD research. That tweak got them an interview for an R&D role.

Build Your Network

You need to meet people who can guide you. Start by connecting with professionals on LinkedIn.

Join groups where PhDs discuss career options. Networking isn’t just about job postings—it’s about learning where you fit.

Going to networking events helped me meet someone in the publishing industry. They gave me insider tips on transitioning from academia to an editorial role.

Learn New Skills

Sometimes, you need additional skills to make the jump.

If you’re moving into software engineering, pick up Python or Java. For policy analyst roles, brush up on data visualization tools.

Graduate students I’ve spoken to often say learning new skills feels daunting. But even if it’s just a short course or an online tutorial, it can make your CV stand out.

Apply for Roles Outside Your Comfort Zone

Don’t wait for the perfect job. Especially if you’re unsure of your career path, apply to jobs that seem interesting. It’s kind of hard to predict where you’ll land, but taking a chance is key.

One PhD student who wanted to do research outside academia applied for an R&D position at a tech company. They didn’t think they’d get it but ended up securing a permanent role.

Follow Up and Stay Persistent

Rejections happen. Keep updating your CV, reaching out to contacts, and applying.

Every interaction gets you closer to finding a non-academic career that fits your expertise.

Transitioning isn’t just about leaving academia—it’s about making informed decisions for your future career. Keep moving forward, and you’ll get there.

What To Do After PhD: Plenty Of Options

Deciding what to do after PhD can feel overwhelming, especially when the academic path seems uncertain. But the options for PhDs are vast and diverse.

Whether you’re drawn to data science, R&D, policy, publishing, or entrepreneurship, your critical thinking skills and expertise are valuable in non-academic careers.

Your PhD is more than a degree—it’s a launchpad for a fulfilling career, whether in academia or beyond. Be bold, stay curious, and carve your own path.

what to do after phd what to do after phd what to do after phd what to do after phd

FAQ – What To Do After PhD

1. what are some career options for phd graduates outside academia.

Data science, R&D, consulting, policy analysis, publishing, entrepreneurship, and healthcare are popular non-academic paths.

2. Why do many PhD holders leave academia?

Academic jobs are competitive, low-paying, and temporary, prompting many to explore rewarding non-academic careers.

3. How do PhDs transition to a non-academic career?

Assess skills, tailor their CVs, learn new tools, network strategically, and apply broadly to relevant roles.

4. What industries value PhD skills?

Industries like technology, consulting, pharmaceuticals, and nonprofits value PhD skills like problem-solving and critical thinking.

5. How do I prepare for life beyond academia?

Research what to do after PhD, gain and highlight transferable skills, network, and gain new expertise through courses or projects.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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What To Do After a PhD: Exciting Career Options for PhD Graduates

Choosing what to do after your PhD isn’t always easy, particularly when you’re not sure if you want to work in academia. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t plenty of career opportunities that come with a PhD – and a good chance it’ll increase your earning potential.

Weve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about PhDs, covering course types, applications, funding and the benefits of further study.

Will a PhD help you get a job or earn a better salary? And what are your career prospects in and outside of academia?

Everything you need to know about part-time and full-time work as a student or recent graduate in the USA.

Everything you need to know about part-time and full-time work in Germany as a student or recent graduate in Germany.

If you’re completing or applying for a PhD, it’s likely that at some point you’ll consider working in academia. Academia is the career path of researchers who work to advance teaching and research in institutes of education. While most academics are employed by universities, institutes could include government-funded experiments or sites of historical preservation, for example.

The main objective of academia is to produce original research. Though not all academics work in university, this page shall focus mainly on the university progression path.

Earning a PhD is a huge accomplishment that requires years of intense study and research. But once you’ve completed your doctoral degree, an important question arises – what’s next? Your PhD has equipped you with highly transferable skills, opening doors to diverse career opportunities. This article explores the many exciting options available for PhD graduates within and beyond academia.

Completing a PhD demonstrates your expertise in a specialized field through rigorous research and analysis. It also cultivates critical soft skills like project management communication, critical thinking and perseverance. With such versatile capabilities, there are diverse possibilities for stimulating post-PhD careers.

Common PhD graduate roles include teaching professionals, natural and social science professionals, research and development professionals, therapy professionals, and business/administrative professionals. But your options expand far beyond these traditional pathways. Whether you desire to stay in academia, transition to industry, or explore unconventional alternatives, this guide outlines promising directions to take your career after PhD graduation.

Academic Careers

For many, a PhD serves as preparation for an academic career centered on research and teaching. Academic environments allow you to utilize your subject-matter expertise and passion for discovery on a daily basis.

Postdoctoral Positions

After earning a PhD, one of the most common next steps is completing one or more postdoctoral appointments. Postdocs involve temporary research positions usually 1-3 years, under the guidance of senior academics. Postdocs build your skills, network, and publications to boost competitiveness for permanent faculty roles.

Research and Teaching Faculty

With postdoctoral experience, you can attain full-time academic positions like lecturer, professor, or researcher. Faculty spearhead courseloads, pursue grants, publish studies, mentor students, and more. Your PhD equips you to shape minds and advance knowledge within your discipline.

University Leadership

Further along your career, you may transition into academic administration as a dean, provost, or university president. These roles oversee university operations, formulate strategic plans, and represent the institution. Your PhD demonstrates the research background necessary to guide universities.

Research-Focused Careers

For those passionate about research numerous career paths allow you to apply your analytical acumen beyond academia. Your advanced methodological skills combined with deep subject-matter expertise make you an asset to research teams and think tanks.

Research and Development (R&D)

R&D drives innovation in various industries and companies by creating new technologies and products. Fields like engineering, computer science, life sciences, and more hire PhDs to lead complex R&D initiatives.

Government Research

Government entities like the CIA, Census Bureau, NIH, and Department of Defense house research divisions that benefit from PhDs’ expertise. Projects can cover wide-ranging topics from public health to national security.

Think Tanks

Think tanks are organizations that undertake in-depth research on policy issues to advise government, academia, businesses, and the public. PhDs often direct projects and author publications for think tanks.

Science and Health Careers

For PhDs in science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), and health fields, your advanced knowledge equips you for specialized technical roles improving society and lives.

Scientific Research and Consulting

PhDs enter private research firms analyzing chemicals, materials, agricultural products, and more to advance innovation. Consultants apply scientific expertise to advise companies on meeting lab standards, regulations, and safety.

Health Care

With a PhD in fields like microbiology, neuroscience, clinical psychology, and public health, you can take on vital health care roles. Options include epidemiology, lab management, hospital administration, and leading research/technical teams.

Business Careers

While less traditional, PhDs also thrive in business settings by leveraging their analytical abilities and mastery of complex concepts. Companies value PhDs for solving problems with critical thinking.

Data Science and Analytics

With expertise in statistical analysis and computational methods from your PhD research, data science roles allow you to uncover game-changing business insights from vast datasets.

Management Consulting

Strategy consulting firms like McKinsey, Bain, and BCG recruit PhDs to tackle multifaceted business challenges like operations optimization, growth strategy, and risk management.

Investment Banking and Finance

PhDs have the quantitative chops to excel in finance, whether analyzing economic trends, developing trading algorithms and risk models, or advising clients on investments as an advisor or portfolio manager.

Policy and Writing Careers

For PhDs in social sciences and humanities, your advanced writing and analytical skills open doors to careers shaping policy, public perception, and discussion through writing.

Policy Research and Analysis

Government entities hire PhDs to research and evaluate policies on topics like economics, education, transportation, and more to optimize effectiveness and outcomes.

Journalism and Publishing

PhDs are equipped for journalism with training in compelling writing and ability to explain complex issues to general audiences. Options include books, newspapers, magazines, websites, and more.

Also mentioned in research careers, think tanks utilize PhDs in social sciences and humanities for policy-focused writing and advising on domestic/foreign affairs, economics, education, and more.

Entrepreneurship

The critical thinking, perseverance, and passion cultivated during your PhD also prime you for entrepreneurship in wide-ranging fields. Your expertise and research skills give you an edge.

Academic Entrepreneurship

Commercialize your research through academic entrepreneurship. Options include starting spinoff companies, patenting/licensing inventions, or joining startups translating research into real-world tech and products.

Mission-Driven Ventures

Bring your PhD experience to mission-driven startups innovating in areas like health, environment, government services, and more. Lead teams applying technology to benefit society.

Start an independent consulting practice offering your specialized expertise to help companies solve complex problems in your field through strategic advising.

A PhD is incredibly versatile, preparing you for diverse, stimulating careers improving companies, societies, and lives. While academia is a common path, roles in research, science, business, policy, writing, entrepreneurship, and more allow you to apply your advanced expertise. Assess your skills, interests and values to determine the best direction for your post-PhD journey. With an open mind, you can land your dream career capitalizing on your PhD capabilities.

What is a fellowship?

Research fellowships are competitive and prestigious positions. Unlike postdocs, you will be funded to complete your own research project. Some positions will also guarantee a permanent academic role after completion. To successfully achieve a fellowship, you’ll need an interesting and viable research project, a history of academic excellence, and experience in writing successful funding or grant applications.

The other type is a teaching fellowship . These roles are not always for early career academics and will be offered to senior researchers so make sure you check the job description.

Non-academic PhD graduate jobs in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences

If your PhD is in an Arts, Humanities or Social Science (AHSS) discipline, the skills you have to offer differ from STEM PhD holders.

Your aptitudes as a AHSS PhD graduate are likely to be suited for industries where communication skills are necessary. The ability to research and write about complex topics will be in-demand across any number of leading companies and sectors. Also, creative thinking will be highly valued by employers in strategic planning or industries such as marketing.

After a PhD what next? | 6 popular options

What is the next stage after PhD?

What comes after a PhD?

What happens after I get my PhD?

What can I do with a PhD?

Writing, lecturing and advocating a business all help market each other, and doing all three in tandem can help build a stable career with your Ph.D. Gaining a Ph.D. means you gain verified proof of your expertise on a subject. With this expertise, you can become a consultant in your field of study.

What can I do after getting a PhD?

Related: 38 Careers That Require a Doctoral Degree After getting a Ph.D., you have multiple options for what you can do next, including: Once you study and complete a Ph.D., you have expert knowledge in a focused portion of the field. As an expert, you can begin writing publications concerning the industry as an authority in the field.

How can I live a better life after a PhD?

If your goal is to live a better life after attaining your PhD in comparison to the one you had during your research, pick a career path that meets two requirements: Choose something you’re passionate about. Make sure the job is well-suited to your lifestyle. For example, consider three people with the same degree.

What can a postdoc do after a PhD?

A postdoc can be a crucial stepping stone to a successful career after completing a PhD. Find out what they are, what they involve and much more. From communication to time management, you will gain a large variety of transferable skills from completing a PhD. Learn what these are and how to use them in your CV. Life After a PhD: What Can You Do?

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