Goodbye academia? It has been a pleasure. | Webinar Series

Have you enjoyed research and teaching in the past years, but now you think it is time to change? Or you are just fed up, but are aware that frustration alone will not lead to a smooth transition out of academia. Maybe you are not sure yet whether to stay in academia or not, but would like to learn more about other possibilities before making any decision? In this course, which has been specifically developed for PhD students and postdocs in the natural sciences, we will not only broaden your view about everything you can do with your qualification, but also give you practical tips on how to reach your personal goals.

In this course you´ll learn about:

Introspection: making plans based on a closer look at yourself

• Your skills, interests and values
• Idealism vs. pragmatism
• Postdoc or not?
• How to get on track? Changing professional directions

Academic career development

• What are hiring committees looking for?
• How can I tailor my profile for a successful academic career?

Career options within…

• The private sector
• The higher education system
• Governmental institutions
• Patent law
• As freelancer
• Consultancies… and many more!

Scoring a job

• CVs and cover letters
• Recruiters, job ads and open applications
• Self-presentation and body language
• Your elevator pitch
• Legal aspects

Salary negotiations

• When to negotiate?
• What to negotiate for and how?
• Hard vs. soft: do I trade-off relationship vs. results or is there a better way?

Networking

• Expanding and keeping your network
• Strategic networking
• Networking for introverts
• Social media