Should you apply for that academic job before finishing your PhD? Here’s how to decide

Описание: You haven’t finished your PhD, so should you apply for an academic job or wait until you have your doctorate?

You’re knee-deep in your PhD, juggling research, writing, and (let's be honest) just trying to keep life together… when BAM! An academic job pops up. Maybe it’s the dream role, maybe it’s just a role, but it’s tempting. It’s income. It’s a title. It’s a foot in the door. But should you really apply before you finish your PhD?

Hi, I’m Dr Elizabeth Yardley and in this video, we’re going to talk this through - properly. Because I’ve supported SO many PhD students wrestling with this dilemma. Some went for it and thrived. Others… not so much.

So let’s get real about the pros and cons of applying for academic jobs before you’ve got that shiny PhD certificate in hand.
We’ll cover:
✅ The difference between ‘PhD essential’ and ‘PhD desirable’ job ads (and what they really mean)
✅ The brutal realities of academic workloads (yep, hamster wheel vibes)
✅ How to honestly assess whether you’re ready - or if it’s a fast track to burnout
✅ Why FOMO isn’t a reason to rush
✅ What to do if you DO go for it (and how to protect your time, energy, and sanity!)

There’s no right or wrong here, just what’s right for you. And I’m here to help you make that call without the panic, pressure, or guilt.

Hit play and let’s figure it out together!

Chapters
0:00 – 1:30 Introduction – the problem with jobs and PhDs
1:31 – 3:05 The academic job market is tough
3:06 – 3:59 Are you actually ready for an academic job?
4:00 – 6:46 Can you handle the pressure of an academic job right now?
6:47 – 7:32 Know the institution before you apply
7:33 – 12:01 Why it might be worth it

// Other helpful videos //
Applying for an academic job    • Lecturer jobs in UK - how to apply  
Interviewing for an academic job    • Lecturer job - how to ace the interview!  
Presentations – stop being so boring    • PhD presentation - be a better public speaker  
Conferences for introverts    • Academic conference - tips for introverts!  

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