For Academics

PhD Students and Doctoral Researchers

A PhD can open the door to a rewarding academic career, but permanent university positions are limited and competition for lectureships, fellowships and long-term research roles is often intense. As a result, many highly qualified PhD graduates and postdoctoral researchers feel pressured to apply for conventional graduate roles, despite having already developed years of advanced professional experience. The Restless Academic helps researchers recognise that moving into industry is not a step backwards, but an opportunity to apply their expertise in a new environment with greater career stability, progression and earning potential.

Throughout a PhD, researchers develop highly transferable skills in project management, technical problem-solving, data analysis, independent decision-making, report writing, communication, stakeholder engagement and working to demanding deadlines. Many also gain experience with specialist software, laboratory techniques, budgeting, teaching, presenting and managing complex programmes of work. These capabilities are directly relevant to industry and should be recognised as professional experience, rather than overlooked simply because they were developed within academia. The Restless Academic connects candidates with employers who understand the value of academic experience and are committed to assessing it fairly.

Experienced Academic Professionals

The same challenges can also affect those who have already built careers within academia. Lecturers, researchers, technicians and other university professionals may face fixed-term contracts, uncertain funding, limited progression or a lack of permanent opportunities. Moving into industry can provide greater stability, clearer career development and the opportunity to apply specialist knowledge to practical, commercial and technical challenges.

Those working in academia already possess substantial professional experience. Lecturers bring leadership, communication, mentoring and organisational skills. Researchers contribute project management, analytical thinking, technical problem-solving and evidence-based decision-making. Technicians offer hands-on expertise in specialist equipment, laboratory procedures, safety, maintenance and troubleshooting. The Restless Academic helps ensure that these capabilities are recognised by employers, allowing academic professionals to pursue suitable industry roles without having to start again at graduate level.

Learn more about our Academic Experience Pledge.