Transitioning from PhD to Assistant Professor: Possibilities and Challenges

Upon completing a PhD, many scholars wonder if they can secure an assistant professor position immediately after graduation. This article explores the potential for such a transition and the factors that influence this possibility.

Quick Answer: Yes, it is possible for someone with a PhD to be hired as an assistant professor immediately after graduation. However, this scenario is relatively rare and often contingent on specific conditions.

Research University Settings

Many universities, particularly research-intensive institutions, will consider hiring a PhD holder even before graduation. This decision is often contingent on the candidate’s intended graduation date. For instance, a university might offer a position starting in August with the expectation that the candidate will graduate by December.

However, it is uncommon for a university to hire someone who graduated from the same institution where they earned their PhD. The main reason is the challenge faculty members face in accepting a change in rank, especially from student to assistant professor.

Tier and Research Emphasis

For high-tier institutions, the research conducted by the candidate is of paramount importance. Additionally, the candidate must demonstrate a fit with the institution’s culture and values. This cultural alignment is crucial for a smooth integration and long-term success in academia.

Competition and Temporary Positions in Australia

In the US, Europe, and Australia, the competitive academic job market often makes immediate employment as an assistant professor unlikely. While it is possible to secure temporary or part-time positions, such as casual contact roles or research assistant positions, these are typically short-term and may not offer the stability of a tenure-track position.

To be competitive in Australia, candidates must be exceptionally fortunate or highly skilled. Unfortunately, due to the high supply of PhD graduates, it is rare to secure a tenure-track position immediately after graduation. This is especially true for those with limited or no teaching experience.

Alternative Career Paths

Despite the challenges in academia, there are alternative career paths outside of traditional academia where PhD graduates can find employment. For instance, some PhD graduates have found success in the public service or private sector. Three PhD graduates supervised at an Australian university a few years ago secured positions as researchers in these sectors.

The availability of these roles can vary depending on the PhD program specifics, the country, and the university from which the candidate graduated. In less developed regions, there may be a higher demand for PhD graduates to fill assistant professor positions immediately after graduation.

Conclusion

While the path from PhD to assistant professor is not straightforward and often competitive, it is possible under certain conditions. Factors such as the institution’s needs, cultural fit, and the candidate’s research prowess play significant roles in the decision-making process. It is essential to explore alternative career paths and be versatile in seeking opportunities.