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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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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They Said I Was ‘Too Old’ – My PhD Journey

Donna L. Halper’s PhD journey began after she lost her job in radio and wanted to reinvent herself as a full-time educator. However, being in her 50s and a woman applicant meant that she faced rejection from several universities, making her determined to prove them wrong.

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Neurodivergence, Mental Health and the PhD: A Compilation of Advice and Support

Are you navigating a PhD with neurodivergence and mental health challenges, or want to find out how you can support those who do? In this article, our Editor-in-Chief reflects on five impactful stories from PhDers who’ve been there. Discover their strategies for success and prioritising wellbeing in an often-unaccommodating world. Click the subheadings to enjoy the full articles for yourself!

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