I am a Professor (Chair) of Global Health Design Innovation at Lancaster University in the UK and a Co-Director of the Future Cities Research Institute between Lancaster and Sunway Universities. I have spent the last decade and a half building a successful academic career going from PhD graduate to Full Professor in less than 15 years and by the age of 40. Then, in 2021, seeing colleagues and PhD students struggle with getting jobs or getting on the academic career ladder, I decided to do something about it. I am now lifting the hood up of academic career development, showing the process underneath, so that others have a guiding light that helps them on their journey. You can follow me on Twitter (@PhDtoProfMentor) and on LinkedIn for a free academic career advice every weekday as well as a free interview guide.

Succeeding at Your Next Postdoc or Lectureship Interview: 5 Insider Tips 

Want to impress potential employers during your next postdoc or lectureship interview? This article has insider tips from an experienced hiring committee member. Learn how to research the institution and interviewers, prepare examples of your teaching and research experience, practice common interview questions, highlight your collaborative skills, and ask thoughtful questions to impress your interviewers and stand out from the crowd. By following these tips, you can show that you are the ideal candidate for the position and help advance your career in academia.

Read More »

PhD Scholarship Proposal: Why I Would Write It Again!

In this article, Bettina Lier shares her experience of applying for a PhD scholarship and how she initially found the application process overwhelming. With the support of her supervisor she overcame her doubts, and successfully completed the proposal. Her story is a great example of how with the right mindset and support, we can overcome any challenge.

Read More »

PhD Wisdom from ‘The Thesis Whisperer’ Inger Mewburn: Working Sustainably, AI Panic, and Careers Hope

Inger ‘The Thesis Whisperer’ Mewburn is something of a superhero to PhD students around the world, dedicated to improving doctoral experiences and post-PhD employability. In this interview, our Editor-in-Chief Charlotte Marino is delighted to share Inger’s wisdom on everything from careers advice to the moral panic around AI – all the while advocating for a kinder, more inclusive academia.

Read More »

Oral Defense Of A Foodie Candidate

This article by Eleazar Reward shares how being a foodie has enriched his life as a doctoral candidate in molecular virology, broadening his cultural integration, creating special memories, and promoting healthy nutrition.

Read More »
Your contribution to our PhD Stories helps us disseminate valuable support to researchers worldwide.
Update cookies preferences