1st Edition
Navigating Careers Beyond Academia A Practical Handbook for Doctoral and Postdoctoral Researchers
Introduction
Chapter 1: Dealing with Feelings when Moving Beyond Academia
Chapter 2: Getting Started on your Transition Beyond Academia
Chapter 3: Applying Your Skills Beyond Academia
Chapter 4: Tackling Common Questions About Careers Beyond Academia
Chapter 5: Finding and Forging Opportunities Beyond Academia
Chapter 6: Communicating your Value to Employers Beyond Academia
Chapter 7: Your New Start Beyond Academia
A Final Word
Biography
Holly Prescott is a career guidance practitioner and trainer, specialising in helping doctoral and postdoctoral researchers find fulfilling careers beyond academia. She combines freelance practice with her role as Careers Adviser for Postgraduate Researchers at the University of Birmingham, UK and works as an external trainer for a range of institutions across the UK and EU.
"This book is like a compass and a map for anyone lost in the post-PhD wilderness. Blending research and experience, Navigating Careers Beyond Academia is both thoroughly practical and deeply kind. The detailed background research will appeal to the academically minded, while the exercises provide a step-by-step guide to navigating the world beyond academia. A must read for anyone who is feeling adrift."
Dr Sarah McLusky, consultant and host of the Research Adjacent Podcast.
"Navigating Careers Beyond Academia is the smart, structured, and research-backed guide that so many PhDs need in today's job market. Whether you’re just starting your doctorate or are already years past graduation, this book offers clarity, compassion, and a treasure trove of evidence-based insights and exercises that will support you in your career decisions. With case studies and advice relevant to both STEM and humanities backgrounds, this book tackles the emotional and practical hurdles of career change beyond academia head-on. If you're a researcher wondering what’s next, this guide offers not just answers, but a confident way forward."
David Mendes, PhD, Creator of the Papa PhD Podcast.






