As a PhD graduate you can start working as a researcher in the industry sector. Commercial companies are doing research to innovate and develop their products. Most big companies have a Research and Development department, where they think about process and product innovation, develop new products and find solutions to practical problems.

Most research is done in electronics, pharma, high tech, telecommunications, finance and insurance. Think of organisations like ASML, Philips and KPN.

Many different job titles exist for jobs with a research aspect in the industry sector, examples are: scientist, researcher, project manager, modeller, engineer, consultant. It’s good to keep your eyes open for all kinds of titles.

Selection of possible tasks:

  • invent new concepts, applications or technologies
  • improve existing methodologies, software or systems
  • analyse data
  • lead small projects

Competencies

  • Expertise in specific field
  • Creativity
  • Solution- & goal oriented mindset
  • Analytical skills
  • Team player