Meet our young researchers
For me it was important early in my PhD to start thinking about what I wanted to do. I reflected on what actually motivated me and made me happy in my work life. So instead of focusing on jobs closely related to my field, I was very open-minded in my job seach and that led me to my current job.
Follow Emil's advice to young researchers heading for the first job
- Start thinking about your career earlyon (See career planning)
- Consider what you enjoy in your professional life – and what you miss – and look for professions that match your preferences (See career tools)
- Check out joblisting for inspiration – and be open-minded (See jobsites)
If you want a career outside academia, you should explore which of your scientific experiences will have value outside of academia. Invest in obtaining relevant transferable skills, such as presentation skills, project management and organizational skills. Also, do not wait for the right job to pop up. Be proactive, contact people in your network and discuss the opportunities.
Follow Susanne's advice to young researchers heading for the first job
- Get transferable skills (See courses)
- Talk to people and expand your network (See network)
- Get CV training (See courses)
If you want to persue a scientific career, you need to nuture your network and work hard on publishing your work in the best scientific papers early in your career. And you need to focus on the impact your work has on society. Besides from that don’t be afraid of making mistakes but enjoy the adventure that a career as a scientist will bring you.
Follow Anders’ advice to young researchers heading for the first job
- Nurture your network (See networking)
- Get published in high-end papers (See courses)
- Get individual postdoc funding to gain experience of administering grants (See fundings under staying in academia)
- Stay tuned with the environment and the field that you want to work in – even when you are abroad.