Reasons for Leaving Academia
There are benefits and drawbacks of academic careers. On one hand, many researchers enjoy the freedom of scientific inquiry, the stimulating work environment, and the ability to pursue topics of personal interest. On the other hand, the academic career path has significant challenges.

Key reasons for leaving include:

• Job insecurity, with limited opportunities for permanent positions, and the lengthy process to secure tenure or long-term contracts
• Mobility requirements, such as the need to relocate frequently for academic roles, are also a major issue, especially for those with families or personal commitments
• Working conditions in academia, characterized by long hours and high pressure to publish.

As a result, many researchers look for more stable and flexible career options.

Dispelling Common Myths and Concerns
There are five major concerns researchers often have about transitioning from academia to other sectors:

1. „I Am the Only One Leaving“
One of the most pervasive myths is the fear that transitioning out of academia is uncommon, leaving researchers feeling isolated. In many academic environments, non-academic career paths are rarely discussed, creating the illusion that leaving is unusual. However, the data suggests that a large proportion of PhD holders do not stay in academia long-term. For example, in Austria, 64% of researchers work in the business sector, while only 29% are employed in higher education.
Further, an OECD study shows that of scientists who began their careers in 2000, roughly one-third left science within five years, and nearly two-thirds had transitioned to other sectors after 19 years. These figures demonstrate that leaving academia is a common and natural part of many researchers‘ career paths.

2. „I Have No Relevant Skills for Industry“
Another concern is that the skills researchers develop in academia won’t be useful in industry. However, many of the skills gained during PhD training are highly transferable. These include problem-solving, quick learning, working in interdisciplinary and international environments, and presenting complex ideas to diverse audiences.
Researchers are also highly used to coping with frustration and adapting to changing situations—skills that are valued in a wide range of industries. Resources such as MyIDP and ImaginePhD are recommended for researchers to assess and identify their transferable skills. These platforms offer tailored tools to help researchers bridge the gap between academia and other sectors.

3. „My Academic CV Will Work Out Fine“
Many researchers mistakenly believe that their academic CV can be used for industry job applications without much modification. However, there is a need to adapt one’s CV and application materials for the industry role being pursued.
In non-academic environments, CVs should focus on highlighting relevant skills and experiences that align with the job description. It’s also important to „translate“ academic terms into language that hiring managers outside of academia can understand. For example, instead of listing publications, researchers might focus on the skills they developed, such as project management, teamwork, and problem-solving. This targeted approach increases the chances of success in job applications.

4. „I Won’t Like the Working Style“
Concerns about the working style in industry versus academia are common. While academia often offers a high degree of flexibility, non-academic roles may involve stricter schedules, more structured team collaboration, and tight deadlines. Some researchers experience a „culture shock“ when moving to industry, especially when facing more hierarchical structures and faster-paced environments.
However, studies show that PhD holders who transition out of academia report high levels of job satisfaction. It’s essential for researchers to assess their own working preferences and investigate the work culture of potential employers. While the lack of academic freedom might feel limiting, working within defined boundaries can also be a relief for some, as it reduces the pressure for perfection.

5. „It’s Too Big a Leap for Me“
The final myth is the fear that leaving academia is a too drastic change, but a transition doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you break the whole process into smaller, manageable steps. For example, with internships, industry collaborations, or even just networking with professionals in other sectors can provide valuable insights.
Career fairs, online job simulations, and structured interviews with professionals from different fields can also help researchers explore career possibilities. Career exploration is an ongoing process and even unsuccessful job applications can open doors to new opportunities.

Embracing Career Exploration
In conclusion, Yasmin Dolak-Struss offers practical advice and resources for researchers contemplating a move from academia. By debunking common myths and providing strategies for self-assessment and skills development, the presentation equips researchers with the tools they need to navigate this important career transition. The key takeaway is that transitioning from academia is not only common but also an opportunity for growth, discovery, and new professional fulfilment.

Panel with Lisa & Loan – Q&A
See the video recording: https://youtu.be/AOy4r68oebU

The Experts

Yasmin Dolak-Struss is a trainer and systemic coach for researchers. She studied technical physics and holds a doctorate in biomathematics. After several years in research, she switched careers to a large research funding organization, where she was advising and training international researchers on European funding programmes and career development for more than 16 years. As certified systemic coach, she offers support for work-related challenges, such as guiding researchers through difficult career decisions and assisting them in finding a successful and happy career path.

Lisa Bierbaumer is a Molecular Biologist, who holds a PhD in „Malignant Diseases“ from the Medical University of Vienna. During her academic career, she has worked on several experimental research projects in Oncology and Rare Diseases. For her last research positions, she worked as a PhD student and later Post-Doc at the St.Anna Kinderkrebsforschung. After her Expert Internship at Novartis, she became a Medical Manager at CAKE – a Communication and Marketing Agency specialized on the pharma- and healthcare sector. Lisa was later promoted to Head of Medical and successfully leads the Medical team today. In addition, she voluntarily worked as Community Outreach & Marketing personnel at the podcast „PhD Career Stories„, a podcast collection of career possibilities after a PhD.

Loan Tran’s academic path began with a Bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology and Genetics from Bielefeld University, followed by a Master’s degree in Biomedicine from Karolinska Institutet. With a focus on cancer epigenetics, she pursued a PhD at the Medical University of Vienna, where she conducted research on colorectal cancer. After completing an Expert Internship, she transitioned into her current role as Digital Science Communication Manager at Amgen, a leading biotechnology company that develops innovative therapies to treat serious illnesses, focusing on areas like oncology, cardiovascular disease, bone health, and rare diseases.

RESEARCHERS BEYOND ACADEMIA by Euraxess

Created in collaboration with the Researchers Beyond Academia (REBECA) Hub by EURAXESS.
This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme within the framework of the ERA TALENT Project funded under grant agreement No 10110347.