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.

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Applying for a PhD: My Struggles and Triumphs

This article explores the challenges, doubts and pressures faced during the pursuit of a PhD. It takes a close look at how PhD candidates are chosen, highlighting the need for looking into the scientific character of the candidate and their way of thinking rather than just focusing on academic achievements alone. The narrative also highlights coping strategies, advocating for resilience and self-reflection. Ultimately, it offers motivation to others, encouraging them to persevere in their pursuit of knowledge and passion in the face of adversity.

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Academic Job Interviews: 5 Questions You Should Be Ready For

Regardless of your PhD stage, you can help your future self by getting interview-ready now. This article goes through five interview questions based on your research that are commonly asked at academic job interviews, with advice on what you can do now during your time as a PhD student to be more prepared in the future!

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