Information and advice on how to get started with career planning, explore different career options for PhD graduates, and get support for job search, applications and interviews for careers within and beyond academia. Careers support for postgraduate researchers We recognise that, as a postgraduate researcher, your experience and career aspirations will be different to that of our undergraduate students, and we tailor our support accordingly. Whether you are interested in a career in academia or want to explore other options, we are here to help you. Events, workshops and skill development Be proactive and take control of your own development during your PhD. There are a wide range of events and workshops specifically for PhD Students. From academic writing and research management to career planning and how to market your PhD, there'll be something for you. PhD Careers Programme Plan ahead to make the most of your PhD. Find out about our PhD Careers programme, including our annual PhD Horizons conference, to help you realise your ambitions. PGR Development & Training Workshops and opportunities to support you during your research journey, developing your skills and supporting your career development. Build experience Find opportunities, including part-time work and internships, to develop employability skills and gain insight into different work environments. Your career after your PhD A PhD equips you with a wide range of skills and experience that will support your future career, whichever direction you take. You have many options open to you, including: Pursuing a career in academia Using your research skills in a different context, such as in industry or policy Leveraging the other skills and strengths developed through your PhD to take a new direction entirely Deciding between these options is often complex and challenging, the resources below will help you to explore these options further. Generating career ideas Follow these suggestions to prompt ideas about your career and use these resources to find out more. Reflecting on your experience Thinking about what you have got to offer is helpful for both career decision making and marketing yourself successfully in job applications. Careers beyond academia Resources to support you as you explore your career beyond academia, including advice on CVs, interviews and career options. Your academic career Resources to support you as you explore your career in academia, including academic CVs, interviews and building your academic profile. Making and changing plans Everybody meets setbacks during their study or work; they are a common feature of a research degree. Get advice on how to start planning, make decisions and change your plans. Making connections & networking Find out about how making connections and networking can help you explore your options, develop your professional network and prepare for interviews. Get Careers Support Postgraduate research students can access careers support for the duration of their studies and for up to 2 years after graduation. You can use our online resources, attend workshops and events, or access our one-to-one information, advice and guidance services to help you manage and develop your career. Get support with your career This article was published on Wednesday 22 July 2026
