Re-establishing my scientist identity in industry

Transitioning from academia to industry is a significant shift. The journey involves not just a change in workplace but also a profound transformation in purpose and mindset. How do you re-establish a scientific identity in an industry context?

Career shift and initial challenges

For many PhD graduates, the path seems clear – pursue postdoctoral research, publish extensively and secure a coveted academic position. However, the reality of dwindling academic job opportunities and the often-overlooked appeal of industry roles leads some to reconsider their trajectory. The decision to shift from academia to industry is not easy and is often accompanied by a sense of loss.

But why do so many PhDs struggle to leave academia? For many, academia is more than just a career – it’s a calling that becomes intertwined with personal identity and fulfilment. I’ve felt this deeply; academic work often feels like a core part of who we are, making it tough to think about leaving. We endure long hours, lower pay and high stress because the work gives us a unique sense of purpose. Stepping away can feel like losing a part of ourselves. Yet, there are opportunities outside academia that can also fulfil this calling.

I believed pursuing a professorship would define my academic identity and be the natural progression of my career. That is why I accepted my first postdoctoral appointment, without thinking twice, shortly after my PhD. I again didn’t think twice when a second postdoc opportunity came up, which led me into a cycle of short-term contracts and moving between universities around the globe.

When I decided to leave academia, realising that my chances of securing a tenure-track position were dwindling, moving to industry felt like leaving behind a part of my identity. The years spent developing expertise in my field, becoming a recognised expert in a niche area and contributing to the academic community made the move to an entry-level industry role feel like a step backward.

It’s common to feel initial dissatisfaction when transitioning from an established academic reputation to a new career path, especially if it’s in a completely different field. The industry landscape can be daunting with its distinct priorities, faster pace and focus on practical applications rather than theoretical research.

Mindset change and relearning

This sense of identity loss lingered for a while, until I adapted and realised that my worth wasn’t solely defined by my job. I discovered that I didn’t fully identify with being the stereotypical academic researcher I once envisioned. Therefore, this transition became an opportunity for growth, requiring a shift in mindset. Instead of seeing it as a step down, it’s important to view it as a new beginning and a chance to apply scientific knowledge in impactful, practical ways rather than purely theoretical ones. Adopting a mindset of continuous learning is crucial.

Industry roles often require a broader skill set than academia, and particularly value project management, teamwork and communication skills tailored for non-specialist audiences. Adapting to a new framework that values results over publications can be challenging but also offers the chance to expand one’s professional skills in meaningful ways.

Re-establishing scientific identity 

Rebuilding a scientific identity in industry proved challenging, but I didn’t have to look far – it involved applying the rigorous training I’d acquired during my PhD and postdoctoral research. The critical thinking, problem-solving and complex data analysis skills honed in academia are invaluable in industry, although they must be adapted to align with business objectives.

For those who can adjust, career progression can be swift. By embracing the need to start from a different role, scientists can ascend to positions that not only align with, but may exceed, their initial academic ambitions. Whether it’s leading research teams, driving product innovation or influencing the company’s strategic direction, there’s significant potential to make a meaningful impact.

Moreover, while transitioning away from an academic identity can be an adjustment, industry roles provide the rewarding opportunity to witness tangible outcomes from your work. Personally, this was incredibly fulfilling. Contributing to product development, process improvement or solving real-world challenges for patients offers a sense of accomplishment that can rival – or even surpass – the intellectual satisfaction of academic research.

Moving from academia to industry is not just a career shift – it’s a transformation of professional identity. While the initial hurdles can be daunting, this change opens up avenues for growth, innovation and fulfilment in unexpected ways. Embracing a mindset of continuous learning, alongside leveraging scientific expertise, allows PhD holders to successfully reshape their identity and achieve new milestones in the fast-paced industrial world. For those contemplating this move, it’s important to recognise that your scientific identity is not confined to the academic realm. It can flourish and evolve in industry, where your skills and knowledge can drive meaningful innovation and create lasting, tangible impact.