Case studies
Three former University of Nottingham postgraduate researchers talk about their move into careers beyond academia.
- Vanja Ljevar
- Ruby Hawley-Sibbett
- Luke Nrman
Vanja Ljevar, Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist
What is your current role and what does it involve?
My current role as co-founder and chief data scientist at Kubik Intelligence involves combining behavioural science with prescriptive and predictive data science techniques to understand customers' minds and drive sales.
My company, Kubik Intelligence, is a cutting-edge market research agency that helps clients reach deep inside customers’ minds and push their ‘buy buttons’. I'm also a board member at the University of Nottingham Business School and I share my expertise as a guest business analytics lecturer and supervisor at a MSc course.
I help clients around the world to transform their businesses and increase their profits, but I also specialise in using big data for social good (for example, using big data to solve menstrual poverty) and I've published several peer-reviewed academic papers on this topic.
How did you become a co-founder and chief data scientist?
I worked as a global consultant for several years, but my journey into this field began with a multidisciplinary PhD Computer Science and Psychology at UoN, which provided a strong foundation for my work. Through years of experience with international projects across various sectors, I've gained a deep understanding of how to apply data science and behavioural insights to real-world problems. Finally, my passion for innovation and entrepreneurship has also played a significant role in my career.
What advice would you give to a researcher getting into your field or setting up their own business?
'Do the scary thing first - get scared later.' I really believe that success comes only when we dare to push our own limits. Additionally, I would advise them to embrace an interdisciplinary approach that combines technical skills with a strong understanding of human behaviour.
Practical experience is invaluable, so seek opportunities to apply your research in real-world settings and don't be scared to ask for help.
Ruby Hawley-Sibbett, Learning and Development Adviser
What is your current role and what does it involve?
As a learning and development adviser, I work as part of a team within human resources at the University of Nottingham.
I manage and deliver individual and group development opportunities for members of staff. I currently specialise in leadership and management, mentoring, and psychometrics. This involves a mix of in-person and online course facilitation, one-to-one appointments, developing training, and project work.
How did you become a learning and development adviser?
During my PhD English Literature, I considered my skills and preferences and realised I was more suited to a career in higher education (HE) professional services, than in academia.
The skills which I developed during my PhD (from my thesis, extracurricular activities, and paid work) are useful in my current role. I still use my research, writing, and teaching skills, as well as organisation and project management.
In my final year, I successfully applied for the Graduate Management Trainee programme, which trains professional services staff. I completed two six-month placements: first in Education and Student Experience and EDI in Medicine and Health Sciences, then in Learning and Development (where I secured my current role).
What advice would you give to a researcher getting into your field?
I would advise researchers to consider which areas of HE professional services appeal to you. Think of all the non-academic staff who have supported your PhD journey. For example, I enjoy teaching as part of my role.
Make sure you do work experience as soon as possible: my work as a Researcher Academy demonstrator and my placement with the PGR Careers team were key to my securing my first role. I also recommend speaking to the Careers team about interview preparation!
Luke Norman, Knowledge Exchange Fellow
What is your current role and what does it involve?
I am a Knowledge Exchange (KE) Fellow at the Nanoscale and Microscale Research Centre, where my role focuses on facilitating communication between the Centre and external stakeholders, such as businesses and the public, regarding materials characterisation techniques.
My responsibilities include project management for our business-facing characterisation services, marketing the Centre to attract new clients, and organising public engagement activities. Every day brings something new, making KE a highly dynamic field!
How did you become a Knowledge Exchange Fellow?
I completed both my undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at the University of Nottingham, where I then initially stayed on as a research fellow in a chemistry lab, focusing on sustainable catalyst production.
After a year, I realised I wanted to move out of the lab but stay connected to science, so I reached out to the Careers team. My careers adviser Kirstin, introduced me to Strengths Profiling, which revealed my strengths in explaining complex topics and connecting people, as well as my desire for continuous challenges.
The very next day, I came across a job advert for a Knowledge Exchange Fellow - a role I hadn’t heard of before, but its key skills, including communication, creativity, and relationship-building, resonated strongly with me.
What advice would you give to a researcher getting into your field?
To excel as a KE Fellow, strong communication skills are essential because KE is fundamentally about creating a two-way dialogue between the university and external partners. I recommend that researchers actively seek out opportunities to develop these skills, such as giving talks, presenting posters, or participating in public engagement events. Building relationships, being adaptable, and continuously learning from each interaction are also key to thriving in this field.