Postdoc

Planning an academic career raises many issues. Source: Bernd Wannenmacher

The careers open to graduates of doctoral programs can vary widely. They do, however, share one common feature: that the phase immediately following completion of the program focuses on raising the graduate’s profile, enhancing his or her skills and qualifications, and demonstrating academic and scientific autonomy.

International mobility is becoming more and more important during this process. Many academic institutions and providers of external funding make efforts to cultivate and support junior scholars and scientists, a fact that is reflected in the many aid programs offered specifically to this group.

Work-life balance is also a topic that is often highly important during this stage of a person’s life. We recommend that students avail themselves of the many ways to obtain advice and support offered at the university. They make it easier for graduates to get their bearings during the difficult, but exciting, phase after finishing a program.