FLS Research Track: 5 Lessons Learned in Transitioning from Academia to Industry By Merisa Nisic, PhD

At the Future Leaders Summit 2024, Merisa Nisić, PhD, shared her insights on navigating the leap from academia to industry. Drawing from her own experiences, she provided practical advice and lessons for those considering the transition.

Lesson 1: Making a Career Switch Takes Work

Switching from academia to industry requires more than just your academic knowledge. Merisa emphasized that overconfidence can hold you back. "Even with a PhD, you’ll need to go through the same process as everyone else," she said.

In academia, your research often defines your identity and it tends to be an individual mindset. In contrast, industry is a team-oriented environment, where successes and failures are shared. "In industry, my successes and failures weren’t mine alone to carry. That made things easier compared to the personal toll of academia," Merisa shared.

Lesson 2: You Can Do So Much With a PhD

A PhD can open doors far beyond academia. Merisa highlighted a range of opportunities in:

·      Nonprofits and government

·      Communications and science policy

·      Entrepreneurship and consulting

By learning to translate your technical, and interpersonal skills, you can explore diverse career paths.

Lesson 3: Pause and Reflect Before Job Hunting

To stand out in industry, it’s essential to identify your transferable skills. Merisa emphasized five soft skills that are particularly valuable:

·      Problem-solving

·      Time management

·      Oral and written communication

·      Collaboration

·      Adaptability

"Leadership can set you apart," Merisa noted. Being able to demonstrate how you’ve led projects or teams can make a big impact.

She also advised leveraging your network. "Don’t underestimate your current and former connections. Ask for feedback—they can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses."

Lesson 4: Humans Hire Humans

In industry, personal networks often play a key role in hiring. "It’s very different when you know someone and their work ethic," Merisa said.

To prepare for the transition:

·      Research companies through informational interviews to understand their culture.

·      Tailor your CV for every application, focusing on skills and deliverables.

·      Practice for interviews, as industry focuses on how you handle real-world situations.

Unlike academic CVs, industry résumés are typically one page long, emphasizing relevant skills and accomplishments.

Lesson 5: Your Next Job Is Not Your Last Job

Merisa closed with a reminder that every career move is part of a journey. "It’s important to see your next job as a stepping stone, not your final destination."

Merisa’s talk offered invaluable guidance for anyone considering a shift to industry. By understanding the cultural differences, translating your skills, and preparing intentionally, you can navigate this transition successfully and open new doors for growth.