PhD:The experience

Dr. Susan Ghazi went from cardiovascular research to a PhD in kidney physiology to Lead Clinical Data Manager and almost none of it was planned. In this episode, she reflects on how she made decisions throughout her career by trusting what felt right, how the PhD built skills she uses every day in industry, and what roles like clinical data management, CRA, and medical science liaison actually look like day to day. A great listen for PhD students curious about the clinical and pharmaceutical industry.

Enjoy!

Gabriella Sauerwein completed her PhD on stem cells and schizophrenia with honors, but not without seriously considering quitting along the way. In this episode, she shares how therapy helped her push through, how she transitioned from academia into regulatory affairs, and what PhD students should start doing now to explore life outside the lab. She also speaks candidly about balancing a career transition with motherhood and why you don't need to have it all figured out at 28.

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 herself. She knows both sides of this conversation intimately.

We talk about the numbers nobody tells you (less than 1% of PhDs end up in permanent academic positions), why leaving academia can feel like a breakup, and what it actually takes to translate years of research into a career that fits your life, not just your CV.

Anne is warm, direct, and genuinely reassuring. This one will make you feel less alone.

GSO: https://gsonet.org/

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 hiring decisions himself. And what he shares in this conversation might genuinely change how you approach your job search.

We talk about why being the most qualified person in the room doesn't mean you'll get the job, why your CV might be invisible even when you're a perfect match, and how a simple reframe of your story (no extra experience needed), can go from zero interviews in six months to landing a role at a top pharma company in four days.

This one is especially for PhDs and academics looking to make the jump to industry but honestly, it's useful for anyone navigating a tough job market.

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 capitalists and landing $150,000 in funding, to finding his footing as a freelance scientific writer and LinkedIn voice; Christos has done what most people only think about.

But this episode isn't just about the highlights. It's about the messy, honest, in-between moments: the PhD overwhelm, the supervisor who wasn't thrilled about his internship, the VC pitches that fell flat before one finally didn't, and the ongoing feeling of still figuring it all out.

If you've ever wondered whether there's a path beyond "professor or industry scientist" , this episode will open your eyes.

Enjoy!

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 Institute in Lübeck led him to a postdoc at Harvard Medical School and eventually to a career pivot he never fully planned. From accidentally landing his first MSL role, to understanding what it really means to "translate" your PhD skills for industry, to breaking down why the "industry is the dark side" mentality is holding scientists back, Alex brings refreshing candor and practical wisdom to every answer.

Whether you're deep in your PhD, finishing a postdoc, or just starting to wonder what's next, this episode is for you.

https://www.medscion.de/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexpalumbomedscion/

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 realizing it. A candid and inspiring conversation for current and future PhD students.

Enjoy!

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 bridging academia and industry

→ Why networking and mentorship matter more than most people realise early in their career

→ The transferable skills you build along the way (and why they open more doors than you'd expect)

Lorena's story is a reminder that the connections you make and the communities you invest in shape you just as much as your research does.

If you're navigating your own academic journey or simply curious about the vibrant life sciences scene in Zurich, this episode is for you.

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, Weekly Research Recharge, as well as her blog Life & Academia and her YouTube channel, Research Masterminds.

A refreshing conversation for anyone who wants to pursue meaningful academic work without burning out along the way.Enjoy!

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 perspective on returning to Romania, discussing how geography, opportunity, and identity intersect in an academic career. We explore the realities of navigating academia. The conversation touches on broader trends in science education, including gender dynamics and shifting student interests, as well as the importance of trust and collaboration in academic environments. We close with practical advice for aspiring scientists, emphasizing the value of working smart, building strong collaborations, and staying adaptable.

A thoughtful episode for early-career researchers and anyone curious about the human side of scientific careers.

Enjoy!

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 styles, mentorship, and the importance of clear expectations and communication with PhD students. We discuss what it’s like to see the PhD journey from the PI’s perspective, as well as the goals and values that guide his lab culture.

The conversation also touches on staying motivated in research, navigating uncertainty, and practical advice for aspiring researchers who are building their own academic identity.

A valuable episode for PhD students, postdocs, and anyone interested in understanding how successful research careers are built; rom both the student and PI viewpoints.

Enjoy!

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 responsibilities, challenges, and the importance of clear communication and problem-solving. Professor Esser shares his expectations of PhD students, the qualities that matter most, and how students can navigate the PhD journey with stronger support systems.

Finally, we discuss practical advice for future PhD candidates, the value of a PhD in academia versus industry, and honest reflections on what a PhD gives you—both professionally and personally.

A thoughtful and grounded conversation for anyone considering a PhD, currently in one, or mentoring the next generation of researchers.

Enjoy!

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 relationship between academia and industry. Tune in for insights on resilience, career transitions, and the value of following your gut feeling in the world of research.

Enjoy!

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.

Whether you're in academia or just curious about life behind the scenes in research, this episode is full of thoughtful insights and inspiration.

Enjoy!

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 research but also supports fellow Indian newcomers with everything from paperwork to groceries. He also shares how learning about his rights empowered him to push back against exploitative work expectations, advocating for fair treatment in academia.