PhD:The experience

What does it really mean to leave academia? And how do you figure out what comes next? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Anne Schreiter, CEO of GSO (Guidance, Skills & Opportunities for Researchers), a Berlin-based non-profit helping researchers navigate career transitions at every stage. Anne has a PhD in organizational sociology, spent time as a postdoc in the US, and made the leap hersel...

Ever wonder what's really going on in the head of the person deciding whether to hire you? In this episode, I sit down with John Bowler, 'the Basel Job Coach', a former recruiter, ex-Novartis global staffing lead, and someone who has spent years on both sides of the hiring table. John brings a rare perspective: he's not just someone who coaches job seekers, he's someone who has made hundreds of hi...

What happens when a scientist refuses to choose just one path? In this episode, I sit down with Christos Efthymiou, biochemist, former PhD researcher at UCL, startup founder, and now scientific writer and strategist, for a conversation that's as wide-ranging as his career. From studying rare blood disorders and building clinical databases used by doctors worldwide, to pitching venture capitali...

What does it actually take to go from pipettes to pitches? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alex Palumbo: neuroscientist, former Medical Science Liaison, and founder & CEO of MEDSCION, for an honest, energizing conversation about life after academia. Alex shares how a biology bachelor's in Düsseldorf, a metabolism master's in Lausanne, and a neuroscience PhD at the Fraunhofer Insti...

Filippo Dall'Armellina, a biochemist and recent PhD graduate from the University of Liverpool, opens up about the highs and lows of doctoral research: from self-doubt to rediscovering his passion for science through podcasting. He reflects on how the PhD shaped his critical thinking, his shift from academia toward industry, and the transferable skills every PhD student builds without always re...

In the latest episode of PhD: The Experience, I sat down with Lorena Rodriguez Curiel, a recent master's graduate and incoming PhD student, for an honest and energising conversation about what it means to grow in academia. We talked about: → Her journey into life sciences and what led her to pursue a PhD → Her work with the Life Science Zurich Young Scientist Network; a remarkable community br...

For this episode I sit down with Dr. Benita Olivier, a professor at  Oxford Brookes University  and a strong believer that we can work at the pace of our ambition without sacrificing our sanity. Through her work, she shares evidence-informed insights on productivity, personal development, and navigating life with clarity and calm. Her ideas reach a global audience via  LinkedIn  and her newsletter...

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Igori Balta about his academic journey and evolving research focus, from the early spark that drew him to biotechnology to his work in antibiotic development. We reflect on his educational background and first research experiences, as well as the challenges of transitioning into a PhD and conducting research in Northern Ireland. Igori also shares a personal perspe...

In this episode, I speak with Professor Christian Frezza about his journey into mitochondrial research and the experiences that shaped his academic path. We explore his PhD years, the transition to postdoctoral research, and the broader debate between pursuing a career in academia versus industry. Professor Frezza shares insights into the role of a Principal Investigator, including supervision sty...

In this episode, I speak with Professor Patrick Esser about his academic journey, from his PhD years to postdoctoral life and the transition to becoming a professor within the UK academic system. We reflect on the challenges, growth, and resilience that shape a research career, and how his research focus has evolved over time. We also dive into what it means to supervise PhD students: the responsi...

In this inaugural episode of "PhD The Experience - Conversations with PIs," I sit down with Federico Bleckwedel, a senior researcher who shares his fascinating journey from studying biotechnology in Argentina to his current postdoctoral work in cardiovascular research. We discuss the challenges and rewards of academia, the importance of choosing the right supervisor, and the evolving rel...

For this episode I chatted with Dr. Elena Hoffer, a scientist and an entrepreneur. Elena discusses her journey in academia, moving abroad to pursue a PhD and eventually taking her career towards entrepreneurship. With her company Alma.me Elena helps academics to switch to Industry from Academia. She has many valuable tips and shares great advice! Enjoy!

For this episode I sat down with Dr. Kevin who received his PhD in industrial chemistry and is now working in the industry in Germany. Kevin talks about his PhD experience, what made him pursue a career in chemistry and he also talks about starting a podcast about innovations and research in chemistry. (Innovate and React). Give it a listen on Spotify! Enjoy!

In the latest episode of my podcast, I’m joined by Alessia, a postdoctoral researcher currently based in Sweden. We dive into her academic journey — from the ups and downs of her PhD to what drives her to remain in academia today. Alessia offers honest reflections on the challenges she’s faced, the lessons she’s learned, and why she continues to be passionate about research and academic life. Whet...

For this episode I sat down with Dr. Franka, a leadership coach, specializing in systemic business coaching. For the last three years Franka has been a freelancer, nevertheless her journey to reach that moment has been very versatile, rich in experiences and lessons that she is so kindly sharing this episode. Enjoy!

For this episode I sat down with Dr. Perianen (Krishna), a postdoctoral researcher in Neuroscience. In this two-parts episode we discuss his academic journey from early on in his B.Sc. in the UK to his current position now. Krishna talks about different aspects of science, academia, collegialism, collaborations, conferences, publications and more. Enjoy!

For this episode I sat down with Dr. Perianen (Krishna), a postdoctoral researcher in Neuroscience. In this two-parts episode we discuss his academic journey from early on in his B.Sc. in the UK to his current position now. Krishna talks about different aspects of science, academia, collegialism, collaborations, conferences, publications and more. Enjoy!

In this episode, we hear from an international PhD who relocated from India to the United States to support his spouse’s career move—only to find himself navigating complex immigration processes. Despite these challenges, he secured a position in cancer research outside his field, thanks to his enthusiasm and willingness to adapt. Now based in New York, he not only contributes to scientific resear...

For this episode I sat down with Sheila, a PhD student in Neuroscience. Sheila talks about going abroad to do her Master's and she decided to remain in Italy to pursue her PHD. However she faced many challenges during her journey that originated from her location choice. Sheila discusses how she managed to find the strength and changed the location of her PhD, which led to a better PhD experience...

For this episode, I am joined by my dear friend Berkin, who successfully defended his PhD at the end of last year. He talks about what it feels like to finally finish the PhD, he reflects on his PhD journey, while also talking about future steps and navigating the career part. Tune in for many tips! Enjoy!

For this episode I sat down with Steph, a 4th year PhD student in Switzerland. She talks about the PhD system in Switzerland, shares her PhD experience and she talks about her newly founded podcast 'The PhD Grind'. Our chat was very refreshing, interesting and fun! Enjoy:) P.S. She interviewed me for her podcast and this will be part II of this episode. Make sure to check it out too!

For this episode, I am joined by Emily, a postdoctoral researcher in social sciences. Emily's academic journey and aspirations make her a very inspiring and uplifting person. She shares very candidly her own path and gives great advice that can change your perspective on the PhD completely. Enjoy!

In this episode I am joined by the founder of the podcast 'Neuroscience and Beyond'. Svilen is a PhD student in the field of Neuroscience and has a very interesting background and academic journey behind him. As soon as he discovered his passion and interest, he went for it and not only switched into the field of Neuroscience but also brought his wonderful podcast to life, where he discusses cutti...

For this episode I am joined by Maria, a Career Coach for Scientists. She shares amazing advice for several different stages of the PhD and gives her expertise on many topics as well. Enjoy! If you would like to contact Maria to discuss your career, please go  to her profile and message her directly: www.linkedin.com/in/mariaderkacheva

For this episode I am joined by Dr. Sabrina, a science communicator and a life coach. Dr. Sabrina has experienced the academic career life but also the life outside of it. She shares great advice on mentoring, mindfulness and talks also about her difficult PhD journey that she managed to bring to an end. Enjoy! https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrina-satzinger/ presentsoul.coaching@gmail.com