Case studies
Three former University of Nottingham postgraduate researchers talk about their move into academia
Fern Baker, Lecturer
What is your current role and what does it involve?
As a lecturer in sustainability at Bournemouth University, I lecture on a variety of topics related to the environment and climate change.
I also conduct and collaborate on research topics of interest to me, apply for grants and review grant applications on the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) panel.
Currently, I am researching the sustainability and nutritional content of alternative sources of protein to animal-based protein, such as insect and plant-based protein.
How did you become a lecturer?
After my PhD, I wanted to continue my research into the environmental impact of the dairy system and how we can work towards a net zero future. While I was in the fourth year (the write-up period) of my PhD, the role was advertised on Indeed. I checked the specification, and it asked for a PhD or PhD near completion, so I applied and was successful. I had teaching experience from my time at Nottingham, which enhanced my application.
What advice would you give to a researcher getting into your field?
It is a competitive field, so I would say to persevere. At some stage, we all face rejection, but that does not mean the perfect role will not come your way. It is important to find, take and often push for opportunities.
Lecturer roles often specify for teaching experience and publications, so it is vital to seek out opportunities to teach and publish during your PhD – speak to your supervisor and staff at the university to find out about possible opportunities.
You do not always need to follow the ‘traditional’ route, we all take different paths. I did not follow the traditional route of a postdoctoral researcher following my PhD and I took a leap applying for a lectureship. Do not be afraid to take those chances, just make sure you enjoy what you do, and your morals align.
Symeon Dionysis, Research Fellow
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I’m a research fellow in FinTech at the Centre for Finance, Technology and Society, Nottingham Business School at Nottingham Trent University.
My research focuses on consumer interaction with and adoption of financial technologies, including blockchain and distributed systems, digital currencies (for example, CBDCs) and new forms of payments (for example, Buy Now Pay Later).
Outside of research, my role also involves effectively mentoring and supervising undergraduate and graduate students, fostering both their academic competence as well as professional growth and contribute to a supportive and productive academic experience
How do you use your degree as part of your job?
Although a psychologist by training, focusing on economic and consumer behaviour, my interdisciplinary PhD in digital economy at the University of Nottingham, highlighted the importance of holistically identifying the barriers of new technology adoption for industry decision-makers and the vitality of providing them with research insights that adopt a multi-stakeholder perspective, in order to overcome them. This process equipped me with the research and practical skills that I am now able to apply in the context of financial technology adoption.
How did you become a research fellow in Fintech?
Although I made the decision to explore a career in industry after finishing my PhD, working as a behavioural science consultant in the private and public sector, I have always kept my antennas up for opportunities closely related to my research expertise and interests.
When an opening presented itself to join Nottingham Business School and work on the field of FinTech adoption, I decided that this was my chance to return to academia and bring with me the industry experience I acquired.
What advice would you give to a researcher getting into your field?
The importance of interdisciplinarity is paramount. Complex, real-world problems rarely fit neatly within the boundaries of a single discipline, something particularly true when it comes to the digital economy and FinTech.
Investing in learning from multiple fields and integrating those into your work, would not only make you a well-rounded researcher but would act as your unique selling proposition when applying for roles.
Rebecca Hall, Teaching Associate
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I am currently a teaching associate in the School of Law at the University of Nottingham. My main responsibility is teaching first year undergraduate students on the Foundations of Tort module, as well as conducting ad hoc teaching sessions in my research expertise of International Humanitarian Law.
As well as teaching, I am part of the Academic Guide team where I assist both first and second-year students in the academic aspects of their degree, supporting them to overcome any problems they may face in their studies and signposting them to the myriad of support services offered by the university.
How did you become a teaching associate?
Since beginning my PhD at the University of Nottingham’s School of Law, I have always wanted to pursue an academic career. I became a teaching associate as the first official step towards this ambition as I came into the final months of my PhD.
I had also done some postgraduate teaching in the School of Law to help build my CV and experience, so I felt ready to hit the ground running when I was offered the role as teaching associate.
What advice would you give to a researcher getting into your field?
The main piece of advice I would give a fellow researcher is to get involved with as many extra responsibilities as you can, without of course, sacrificing the much-needed time you need to dedicate to your actual research/degree.
I have previously undertaken research internships, assisted senior colleagues on their own projects and taken part in different research groups in my department - all with the aim of networking, developing my skills and gaining extra experience.
In addition, the people around you are so important, not only to your academic and career success but to your overall wellbeing too. Choose a supervisor who will help to nurture your research ambitions, as well as someone who can support, reassure and guide you through the process.