What to Do After PhD: Academia vs Industry Career Path in 2025

Introduction: Welcome to the PhD Afterlife

What to do after PhD? Ah, the million-dollar question! Ciao a tutti! Giuseppe here—PhD survivor and industry insider—ready to help you navigate this post-PhD crossroads.

Remember those days of pipetting your hopes and dreams into tiny tubes? Yeah, me too. But now that you’ve successfully defended your thesis and earned that shiny doctorate, you’re probably wondering, “What’s next?” Don’t worry—I’ve been there, done that, and even framed my PhD diploma next to my therapy bills…

But once the celebrations fade and the reality of job hunting sets in, you might find yourself asking: Where do I go from here? Do I stay in academia, or is industry a better fit?

Today, we’re tackling the big, slightly terrifying decision that haunts many fresh PhD graduates: academia or industry? Buckle up, because we’re about to explore the pros, cons, myths, realities, and everything in between. By the end, you’ll have a clearer picture of your options and feel more confident about your next move.

The Great Dilemma: Academia or Industry?

Ah, the age-old question that keeps many a PhD candidate up at night. Choosing between academia and industry can feel like picking between two mystery boxes—both have risks and rewards, but you’re not sure which one holds the golden ticket. So, let’s break them down.

Navigating the Unknown: My Post-PhD Epiphany

But first, let me share a bit of my own journey. I earned my PhD in molecular biology, specifically in the field of aging. (Yes, I spent years unraveling the mysteries of growing old—ironic, considering my PhD seemed to age me at twice the normal rate.)

Looking back, I really wish I had explored my options earlier—or at least consulted a career advisor who could have pointed me toward the many possibilities available to PhD graduates. That’s why I’m here: to help you navigate this decision before you find yourself staring at job listings in a post-defense haze. Trust me, future you will thank you.

If you’re feeling just as lost as I was back then, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Let’s take a closer look at what academia and industry really offer, so you can make an informed choice before panic-scrolling through job listings.

Academia After PhD: Life in the Ivory Tower

Ah, academia—the land of perpetual learning, teaching, and the occasional urge to bang your head against the wall after your third rejected grant application. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves!

The academic path is often considered the traditional route for PhD graduates. Your quest? To climb the tenure-track ladder and become a Principal Investigator (PI)—the ruler of your own laboratory, complete with minions (ahem, I mean graduate students) to do your bidding.

The Academic Career Path: From PhD Student to Professor

Thinking about staying in academia after your PhD? Here’s what your journey could look like:

• Postdoctoral Researcher (Postdoc): Welcome to publication purgatory! This is where you gain independence, develop your own research niche, and work toward securing a permanent position. Most postdocs spend several years (often multiple contracts) in this phase.
• Assistant Professor & Baby PI: You’ve finally landed a stable position—congrats! Now you get to juggle teaching, research, supervising students, administrative tasks, and grant writing. Oh, and did we mention the tenure clock is ticking?
• Principal Investigator (PI): This title can be held at different academic levels (from Assistant Professor onward). As a PI, you run your own lab, secure funding, and manage a team of students and postdocs—all while still teaching and publishing.

• Full Professor & Tenure: You’ve reached the top! With tenure, you have job security, more academic freedom, and (hopefully) a bit more breathing room. But let’s be honest—grant applications, student supervision, and department politics never really go away.

But is academia really the best path for you? Let’s break down the pros and cons before you commit to the life of a PhD student-turned-professor.

Pros of an Academic Career

• ✅ Intellectual Freedom: Remember that wild hypothesis about tardigrades holding the key to immortality? In academia, you might actually get to pursue it!
• ✅ Teaching & Mentorship: If you enjoy inspiring the next generation of scientists, being a lecturer or professor allows you to share knowledge and guide students.
• ✅ Academic Community & Recognition: Conferences, collaborations, and heated debates over the latest research—academia can feel like a never-ending inspiration hub for science lovers.
• ✅ Prestige & Title: Let’s face it, there’s a certain cachet to being called “Professor.” Plus, it’s a great way to impress your high school reunion (take that, prom king!).

Cons of an Academic Career

• ❌ Hyper-Competitive Job Market: Landing a tenure-track position is like the Hunger Games—except with more coffee and fewer weapons (hopefully).
• ❌ Funding Struggles: Grant writing never ends. Securing research money can be harder than convincing your parents to increase your allowance—”But Mom, I really need this $500,000 confocal microscope!”
• ❌ Work-Life Balance? What’s That? Weekends are for writing papers. Nights are for grant applications. Vacations? Those are just conferences in nice locations.
• ❌ Salary Considerations: Academic salaries vary by country and institution. While full professors can earn very good money, getting there takes years. In the meantime, early-career researchers (postdocs, assistant professors) often earn less than their industry counterparts—sometimes significantly less.

Navigating these challenges can feel overwhelming, but there’s a glimmer of hope. Have you heard about Google’s AI co-scientist? It’s designed to assist with many of these hurdles. Learn more about how AI could change research in my blog post: Google’s AI Co-Scientist: A Revolutionary Breakthrough or Just More Hype?

Industry: Beyond the Ivory Tower and Into the Real World

But what if the idea of chasing grants, juggling teaching duties, and navigating academic bureaucracy doesn’t appeal to you? Well, you’re not alone. Many PhDs find themselves drawn to industry, where science takes on a different but equally exciting form.

Industry Opportunities: Thriving Beyond the Academic Lab

In the vast ecosystem of non-academic careers, PhDs can leverage their expertise in many ways. Whether you prefer a research position or something more business-focused, industry might have the right fit for you. Here are some of the most common career paths:

• 🔬 R&D (Research and Development): Think of this as academia’s cooler cousin. You’ll conduct cutting-edge research, but instead of chasing publications, you’re helping develop new products or technologies that make a tangible impact.
• 🛠️ Technical Support: Be the scientific problem-solver who helps researchers troubleshoot their experiments. Like a scientific Yoda, but with better customer service skills.
• 🧪 Application Specialist: A mix of scientist, consultant, and magician. You are the expert who demonstrates high-tech lab products and train researchers on how to use them effectively.
• 💰 Sales & Business Development: If you enjoy talking science but want more human interaction, this might be your niche. You’ll bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and the scientists who need it—and commissions can be a nice bonus.
• ⚙️ Product Management: Ever wished lab equipment was designed by someone who actually understands science? As a product manager, you’ll translate researcher needs into real products by working with engineers and marketing teams.
• 📋 Project Management: Think of this as orchestrating a complex scientific symphony. You’ll coordinate teams, timelines, and budgets to ensure projects run smoothly—whether in biotech, pharma, or beyond.
• 🏥 Clinical Research Associate (CRA): Bridge the gap between bench science and patient impact. CRAs ensure that clinical trials run correctly and ethically, playing a key role in bringing new therapies to market.

And these are just few of the many paths available! Whether you want to stay close to research or branch into business, industry offers flexible career options that fit different strengths and interests.

But what’s it really like working in industry? Let’s break down the pros and cons to help you decide if this path is right for you…

Pros of Industry Career

• ✅ Better Salary from the Start: Unlike academia, where financial rewards take years, industry offers competitive pay right away. Senior roles can be very lucrative, depending on the sector.
• ✅ Work-Life Balance (Yes, It Exists!): Forget weekend experiments and 10 PM grant deadlines. While industry jobs can be demanding, most companies respect personal time far more than academia does.
• ✅ Clear Career Progression: No tenure track, no postdoc limbo. In industry, promotions are based on performance, not just publications or grants.
• ✅ Diverse Career Options: Don’t want to stay in the lab forever? Industry allows you to pivot into regulatory affairs, consulting, data science, medical affairs, and beyond.

Cons of Industry Career

• ❌ Less Intellectual Freedom: In academia, you chase the questions that fascinate you. In industry, research priorities align with business goals, not personal curiosity.
• ❌ Job Stability Varies: Unlike tenure, companies can restructure, downsize, or shift focus—which means job security isn’t always guaranteed.
• ❌ Corporate Culture Shock: Transitioning from academia to industry can feel like learning a new language. Expect faster-paced projects, corporate culture, and a focus on results over theory.
• ❌Less Flexibility: Academia often offers more flexibility in terms of working hours and location. Industry jobs typically require more rigid schedules and on-site presence.

My Leap to the “Dark Side”: From Academia to Industry

What have I actually chosen after my PhD? Alright, it’s time to spill the tea: I took the leap. After more than eight years of living the life of a PhD student, drowning in experiments and chasing elusive data, I decided it was time for a change. So, I packed up my pipettes and ventured into industry as a Field Application Specialist in Biotech.

Why? Well, let’s be honest—a paycheck that doesn’t make you question your life choices was a solid incentive. But it was more than that. I wanted new challenges, a sense of stability, and the chance to see my work have a real-world impact beyond yet another supplementary figure in a publication.

Don’t get me wrong, academia can be a beautiful path. But it’s not for everyone! For me, it started to feel like an endless cycle of uncertainty—one that demanded everything while giving little in return.

Was it scary? You bet. Leaving the comfort of academia felt like stepping off a cliff. But instead of free-falling, I found myself on a fast track to new opportunities—ones that challenged me in ways I never expected.

So, if you’re on the fence about making the jump, remember this: your PhD isn’t a cage—it’s a Swiss Army knife. Whether you stay in academia or take your skills elsewhere, you’re more equipped than you think. And who knows? Your scientific superpower might just shine brightest where you least expected it, at least that’s been the case for me.

The Changing Landscape: What the Numbers Say

Alright, I chose to jump into industry, but what about the others? Let’s put on our stats goggles and dive into some hard data. Spoiler alert: the times, they are a-changin’.

The Academic Hunger Games

Here’s a fun fact to keep you up at night: Remember when becoming a PI was the dream of every bright-eyed PhD student? Well, according to a study of 2,284 EMBL alumni between 1997 and 2020, only 27.8% secured PI positions in academia (elifesciences.org). This percentage has been decreasing over time, as fast as your enthusiasm for lab work on a Friday afternoon.

In the United States, the odds of landing a tenure-track faculty position are slim. Data from the National Science Foundation indicates that the percentage of life sciences PhD graduates holding tenure-track positions three to five years post-graduation dropped from 18.1% in 1997 to 8.1% in 2015 (embl.org). It’s like a game of musical chairs, but with 100 players and only 8 chairs!

The Great Migration: From Academia to Industry

Hold onto your pipettes, folks – we’re witnessing a major shift in the career paths of life sciences PhDs.

According to The Science Marketer and Statnews, recent data reveals some eye-opening trends (thesciencemarketer.com, statnews.com):

• 🔹 Nearly 47% of 2022 life sciences PhD graduates in the U.S. secured jobs before even finishing their degrees. (I was definitely not in that lucky group.)
• 🔹 Industry has taken the lead as the top destination, now employing 54% of new PhD grads—up from 49% in 2021. That’s a 5% jump in just one year.
• 🔹 Meanwhile, academia’s share has dropped to 27%, down from 30.5% the previous year.

So what’s the takeaway? We’re seeing a clear shift towards industry, with more than half of PhD grads now choosing this path.

As someone who’s made this transition, I can’t help but wonder: is this the new normal? Are we witnessing the early stages of a major realignment in science careers?

Why the Shift?

Several factors are driving this trend:

1. Competition: The academic job market is tighter than your budget after buying lab supplies.
   
2. Salary: Industry often offers significantly higher pay—often making the choice a no-brainer.
   
3. Opportunities:: Advancements in biotech, pharma, and data science have created exciting roles outside academia.
   
4. Appeal: Unlike academia, industry tends to respect the concept of work-life balance, and often provides clearer career progression and long-term security.
   

Remember, these stats aren’t meant to scare you (okay, maybe a little). But they do paint a clear picture: the post-PhD career landscape is evolving. It’s not worse—it’s just different.

Post-PhD Careers: How to Land a Job Outside Academia

Now that we’ve scared you with statistics, let’s talk about what actually matters—how to navigate this brave new world and find a career path that works for you.

When to Start Planning Your Post-PhD Career (Hint: Now)

One of my biggest regrets during my PhD? Not exploring my options sooner. I was so buried in research that I barely looked beyond the lab walls. Or maybe, deep down, I was just afraid of confronting the question: What comes next?

Here’s the funny thing—I had no idea I didn’t actually enjoy wet lab work. It was all I knew, so I just assumed it was what I was meant to do. Turns out, I was wrong. The moment I stepped outside my comfort zone and tried something different, I realized I loved working with people. Now, as a Field Application Specialist, I get to blend science with customer interaction, and honestly? I like it much better than working in the lab!

Don’t make the same mistake I did. Start thinking about your career options well before you’re knee-deep in writing your thesis. Experiment with different roles, talk to people in various careers, and most importantly—be open to surprises.

One of the best ways to do this? Leverage LinkedIn.

How to Use LinkedIn to Find Your First Job After a PhD

LinkedIn isn’t just for showcasing publications or stalking your ex-lab mates. It’s a goldmine of job opportunities.

Here’s a secret: I found my current job on LinkedIn. During my PhD, I had no clue that a role like Field Application Specialist even existed.

My advice? Start exploring job postings early (I know, I am a broken record)—even if you’re not actively applying. You might stumble upon careers you never even knew were an option. And who knows? Your dream job might be something you haven’t even heard of yet.

Another great way to uncover these hidden opportunities? Networking.

Why Networking is the Secret to Landing a PhD Job

Job hunting isn’t just about sending résumés into the void—it’s about making connections.

• Attend conferences and actually talk to people (yes, even the ones outside your research niche).
• Join professional associations—many offer career resources and mentorship opportunities.
• Reach out to alumni who have successfully transitioned into industry. A quick message on LinkedIn can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

You never know which conversation might lead to your next big break. But networking isn’t the only way to explore career options—there’s a whole world of resources at your fingertips.

Other Ways to Explore Your Career Options

• Company Websites – Biotech and pharma companies often have detailed career pages. Think of them as a treasure map for potential jobs.
• University Career Workshops – Many universities offer free workshops on careers beyond academia. Take advantage of them.
• Science Twitter (Yes, Really) – Following scientists and industry professionals can give you an inside look into different career paths.

Shameless Plug: CuriosityBloom

Looking for more in-depth career advice? Stay tuned! CuriosityBloom is here to help you navigate your career options. Whether you’re considering academia, industry, consulting, or something completely unexpected, this blog is your go-to guide. Think of it as Career Advice for Dummies—but for brilliant people like you. 😉

Beyond Academia and Industry: Exploring Alternative Paths

If neither Academia nor Industry sound appealing to you, no worries! There’s a whole world of alternative careers out there for biology PhDs:

• Science Communication: Perfect for those who love science but love sharing it even more. Whether through writing, public outreach, or media, you can help bring complex ideas to the world.
• Entrepreneurship: Have a groundbreaking idea? Turn it into a startup and be the next biotech innovator!
• Policy & Government: Play a role in shaping science funding, regulations, and policies that impact research and society.
• Non-Profit & Advocacy: Support global health, conservation, or science education by working with mission-driven organizations.

And this is just the beginning! Stay tuned for a deep dive into these alternative careers in an upcoming post.

But how do you actually decide what’s the best for you? Academia, industry, or something else?

Choosing Your Path: Academia, Industry, or Something Else?

So, how do you make this life-altering decision? I’ll be honest—during my PhD, I flip-flopped constantly. If my project was going well (a rare event), I entertained the idea of staying in academia, dreaming of amazing discoveries. But when things inevitably went wrong (quite often), I started thinking about industry. After nearly a decade of pipetting, troubleshooting, and chasing elusive data, I realized I wanted more stability and a life outside the lab. That’s how I ended up in industry—where weekends actually feel like weekends.

If you’re stuck in the same cycle of indecision, here are some key factors to consider:

• What excites you about science? Is it the thrill of discovery, the freedom to explore your own ideas, or the satisfaction of seeing research turn into real-world applications? Academia offers intellectual independence, while industry often provides a more direct impact on products and technologies. Which feels more rewarding to you?
• How much structure do you prefer? Some people thrive in the open-ended nature of academic research, where curiosity drives the next step. Others prefer clear objectives and structured career paths. Do you enjoy the challenge of carving out your own niche, or do you prefer defined goals and progress markers?
• What kind of work-life balance do you need? Are you someone who’s okay with irregular hours and weekends in the lab, or do you value a more predictable schedule? Neither is inherently better—it’s just about knowing what suits you best.
• How important is financial stability to you? Money isn’t everything, but it does shape your lifestyle and future plans. Are you comfortable with the financial uncertainty of grants and academic contracts, or do you prefer a steady paycheck and structured salary growth?
• Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Forget job titles for a moment—what kind of life do you imagine? Are you mentoring students, leading a research team, launching a startup, or doing something entirely different? Your career is just one piece of the puzzle.

There’s no universal “right” choice—only the one that aligns best with your priorities and aspirations. And the best part? Careers aren’t set in stone. Many people transition between academia and industry, or branch out into something new entirely. Your first decision isn’t necessarily your final one.

So take a deep breath, reflect on what matters most to you, and trust that you’ll find your way—because you will.

Conclusion: Your PhD, Your Choice

As we reach the end of this epic journey (much like your Ph.D., but with less swearing—hopefully), let’s recap:

The choice between academia and industry isn’t black and white—there are more shades of gray than in a poorly contrasted Western blot.
Start exploring your options early—your future self will thank you.
Don’t be afraid of change—your PhD skills are more transferable than you think.
Consider your personal values, goals, and lifestyle preferences when making your decision.

Personally, I chose industry. After nearly a decade of pipetting and troubleshooting, I wanted more stability, work-life balance, and a different kind of challenge. But that’s just me. This decision is deeply personal, and my preference shouldn’t sway you—what matters is what you truly want for your career and life.

So, what’s your next move, future Dr. Awesome? Are you ready to dive into the academic pool, take the industry plunge, or forge your own path? Whatever you choose, remember: you survived a PhD! You can handle anything life throws at you!

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going!

Now it’s your turn. Share your thoughts, worries, or wild career ideas in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!

Want to stay in the loop? Here’s how you can join the adventure:

• 💬 Drop a comment – What’s your biggest career dilemma? Let’s talk!

• 🔄 Share this post – Know a fellow PhD struggling with career decisions? Pass it on!

Your PhD has prepared you for more than you think—now go out there and make your next move!🌟

FAQ: Because You’re Not the Only One Freaking Out