Choosing between a Ph.D. program or entering the biotech industry can be a turning point in your career.
If you had the opportunity to work in a startup vs. join a Ph.D. lab, what would you pick—and why?
4 Likes
At that point it’s totally the individual’s descision. One can keep studying and apply for PhD labs. Some of them have to support family and take up family responsibilities, in that case they can shift the PhD program for few years until the scenario gets stable.
2 Likes
I’d choose a startup for hands-on impact, fast learning, and real-world problem-solving. But if driven by curiosity and research depth, a Ph.D. offers unmatched expertise and long-term academic growth.
1 Like
I’d pick working in a biotech startup for its practical application and fast-paced environment.
Startups offer diverse roles, allowing for skill development and adaptability.
It’s ideal for those interested in industry, entrepreneurship, or innovation.
Ph.D. programs suit those passionate about academia or research.
Consider career goals, personal preferences, and opportunity costs.
Startups provide real-world experience and potential for growth.
Ultimately, the choice depends on individual priorities and goals.
1 Like
-
I would love to join a startup as there i can apply and learn about my subject in a real way
-
Startup will end up being a job in which each day i can apply my knowledge in a way to solve healthcare problems and create new inventions which is what i basically want to do .
-
PHD would also end up getting a decent job but entering in startup excites me more .
2 Likes
I would prefer to gain industry experience before pursuing a PhD. Choosing a research topic is a significant and long-term commitment, and I believe that being exposed to real-world problems, working in cross-functional teams, and managing projects in an industry setting can provide clarity. This experience not only helps in identifying one’s research interests but also builds essential skills like time management, communication, and resilience, all of which are essential in navigating the challenges of a PhD journey effectively.
1 Like
I’d definitely pick the opportunity to work in a startup given the amount of time and effort required to complete a Ph.D. program. Also, great passion and energy are the ultimate guide in successfully completing Ph.D. programs.
1 Like
It is completely a personal choice. People who look for fast growth and have inclination towards industry, they go for a start-up and people who want to explore more deeper knowledge about the field and who are more inclined towards contribution into the global research and looking forward to teaching as a passion, they mostly go for Ph.D. Ph.D. also gives you several skills that you can use for a variety of jobs and it also opens up a platform with a good pay with recognized credibility. For Ph.D. enough patience and perseverance is required and it’s a long journey. In a start-up journey, growth is quick, immediate execution of work with deadlines, and one can learn business related skills here.
1 Like
Working for start- up will be more interesting as you can learn to build that start up from the beginning. Learn to troubleshoot things .
1 Like
I’ve heard that academia is exhausting and hard to succeed in compared to an industry job. I think it all depends on personal inetrest and drive. Do what works for you and keep up with industry changes.
1 Like
In this case, If you are so much passionate about doing individual research. That is you work from the scratch, come up with an idea/ research proposal and slowly over years you implement it and end up with a patent or marketing kind of drug/formulation/device or any. Then you opt for a Ph.D, but note that its all trial and error, you fall many time and rise again. But with consistency you will succeed. Whereas, on the other hand if you are someone who will just process the instructions received from your senior and doesn’t have much clarity on what to do next. Then pick up the job opportunity, where you gain experience and you learn from that. Over years, as you are working with the same domain you get to know the nook and corner of how getting things done right.
1 Like
I should say choose Industry if you want quick growth, good salary, and practical work.
And choose Academia if you love research, teaching, and deeper study.
1 Like