Beyond the Thesis With Papa PhD

What if your time in grad school wasn’t wasted—but the foundation of a life you’re just beginning to design? This week on Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD, Ashley Jablo—career coach, strategist, and founder of Life Design School—joins us to talk about reinventing your path after academia. From her own journey through government layoffs, business school pivots, and career uncertainty, Ashley shares how to move from shame and regret to clarity, purpose, and creative momentum. We break down her 4-step Life Design framework—Discover, Define, Imagine, Iterate—and explore tools you can use right now to gain confidence, reconnect with your values, and start taking small but powerful steps forward. Perfect for PhDs, postdocs, grad students, or anyone feeling stuck or lost after a big transition. 🎧 In this episode: What to do when your academic path falls apart Why “no experience is wasted” in your career journey How to reframe failure as part of your unique story Building clarity through small joyful actions The power of “onlyness” and owning your personal narrative Using iteration to make sustainable, low-risk career moves 💡 Whether you’re post-PhD, considering a non-academic career, or just navigating change, this episode will show you how to start where you are and design a path that fits who you are now. 🔗 Ashley’s Clarity Kit (Free Workshop): https://lifedesignschool.co 📌 Keywords: PhD career clarity, grad school regret, non-academic careers, postdoc transition, life design, burnout recovery, job search strategy, academic identity, coaching for PhDs, career reinvention

Dans cet épisode d'Au-delà de la thèse avec Papa PhD, David reçoit Arnaud Stiepen – astrophysicien, vulgarisateur scientifique et fondateur de Nexus. Depuis la Belgique, Arnaud nous raconte comment un dessin animé a éveillé sa passion pour la science, comment son doctorat l’a mené à collaborer avec la NASA, et pourquoi il a décidé de quitter le monde académique pour devenir une voix incontournable de la vulgarisation scientifique en francophonie. Nous abordons ensemble : Comment transformer un doctorat en tremplin vers l’entrepreneuriat Le syndrome de l’imposteur chez les chercheurs en reconversion L’importance d’apprendre à raconter la science pour mieux la partager Le pouvoir de l’émotion dans la communication scientifique Ce qu’Arnaud aurait aimé savoir au moment de lancer Nexus Un témoignage inspirant pour tous les doctorants et docteurs qui veulent aller plus loin… au-delà du labo. 🎧 Écoutez et partagez !

What happens when a GPCR bench scientist becomes a global connector in biotech? In this episode, Dr. Yamina Berchiche shares her inspiring journey from academia to industry, and how her passion for communication and community-building led her to found the Dr. GPCR ecosystem. With over 20 years in GPCR pharmacology across academia and biotech, Yamina blends deep scientific insight with entrepreneurial vision. Learn how she transitioned out of the lab, embraced marketing and sales, and now supports scientists and CROs through strategic consulting. You’ll hear about: The origin of the Dr. GPCR podcast and how it grew into a global platform Yamina’s leap from postdoc to sales, and why she left the bench How PhDs can reframe their skills to lead in industry settings Communication lessons from the world of scientific marketing Her thoughts on personal branding and building connections in biotech Whether you’re exploring non-academic careers for PhDs or looking to amplify your science communication impact, this episode offers a grounded look at finding purpose beyond the pipette.   🔗 Find Yamina's work here: https://www.ecosystem.drgpcr.com/yamina-corner https://www.facebook.com/yamina.org   🎯 Share this episode with a colleague exploring science communication or biotech business roles!

Dans cet épisode sincère et éclairant d’Au-delà de la thèse avec Papa PhD, David Mendes reçoit Marc-André Hachey, ingénieur mécanique et ancien doctorant en micro-fabrication. Marc-André partage avec authenticité son cheminement académique, les réflexions qui l’ont conduit à quitter son doctorat, et comment il a trouvé un nouvel élan professionnel dans le secteur de la MedTech. Ensemble, ils abordent des thèmes essentiels pour la communauté des chercheurs : le syndrome de l’imposteur, la santé mentale aux cycles supérieurs, la quête de sens dans les études, et la transition vers l’industrie. Un épisode riche en conseils pour celles et ceux qui envisagent une réorientation après le doctorat. 💡 Points clés de l’épisode : Pourquoi la finalité professionnelle est un facteur clé de motivation Le rôle des compétences transférables dans une transition réussie Ce que Marc-André a découvert dans le milieu des technologies médicales L’importance de prendre soin de sa santé mentale tout au long du parcours doctoral Réfléchir à son avenir professionnel avec lucidité et bienveillance 🔗 Ressources : Visitez PapaPhD.com pour explorer plus d’épisodes et de ressources Retrouvez Marc-André sur LinkedIn Suivez Papa PhD sur Instagram et YouTube 📬 Abonnez-vous, laissez un avis et partagez cet épisode autour de vous. Ensemble, faisons évoluer la conversation autour de l’après-PhD 🌱

Why do we really pursue a PhD—and what happens when the reason no longer feels valid? In this honest and powerful conversation, host David Mendes is joined by Dr. Agnieszka Piotrowska—founder of The Scholars Mentor—to unpack the psychological and emotional challenges PhD students face, especially those studying abroad. Drawing on her background in psychoanalysis and decades in higher ed, Agnieszka discusses the quiet crisis many international and doctoral students go through: anxiety, isolation, and the haunting question—should I just quit? Whether you're feeling stuck, burned out, or just deeply unsure, this episode offers grounded advice on how to move forward with clarity and compassion. 🔍 What You’ll Learn: The hidden toll of doing a PhD away from home How institutional structures can amplify stress and mental health issues Practical tips for choosing the right supervisor and university How to tell if you’re sabotaging your PhD journey—and how to get back on track The power of talking, writing, and “speaking your truth” when things get hard Why AI tools can help but shouldn’t replace real human support What to do when you're seriously thinking of dropping out 🛠️ Mentioned Resources: The Scholars Mentor coaching platform: https://www.scholarsmentor.com/ Agnieszka’s book: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1805586963 💬 Notable Quote: "If you’re doing something but actually you don’t want to do it, you very quickly start sabotaging yourself." – Dr. Agnieszka Piotrowska

How do you turn a PhD in astrophysics into a career making science accessible to everyone? In this inspiring episode, Arnaud Stiepen - science communicator, TV host, and founder of Nexus by Arnaud Stiepen - joins David Mendes to share his journey from NASA collaborations to building a science-communication business. 💡 Topics include: Building a meaningful career in science communication Overcoming the “shame of money” in academia What entrepreneurship looks like for scientists Mentorship, Aikido, and learning to fail forward Whether you’re exploring life beyond academia or dreaming of launching your own project, this conversation will remind you that your PhD is just the beginning. 🎧 Listen to more episodes at PapaPhD.com #PhDCareers #ScienceCommunication #BeyondAcademia #PapaPhD #PhDLife

Dans cet épisode spécial enregistré en direct à l’UQAR lors des Journées de la relève en recherche 2025 de l’ACFAS, David Mendes anime la table ronde d’ouverture intitulée « L’avenir après les études supérieures : parcours inspirants ». Laissez-vous inspirer par les partages de cinq panélistes qui partagent leurs trajectoires professionnelles au-delà du doctorat, illustrant la diversité de carrières possibles après les études supérieures: Valérie Bélanger, directrice régionale Rimouski / Bas Saint-Laurent / Gaspésie chez Axelys, Maude Boissonneault, coordonnatrice du programme PLAINE et des missions scientifiques au Réseau Québec maritime, Sébastien Chabot, professeur de littérature au Cégep de Rimouski, Sabine Dodard, agente du conseil de recherche, Développement des cultures et des ressources aquatiques au Conseil national de recherches Canada et Bertrand Genard, président des Laboratoires Iso-Biokem Inc. Du monde académique à l’industrie, de la recherche à la coordination scientifique, ces échanges offrent un aperçu précieux des chemins non linéaires empruntés par des diplômés passionnés. 🎙️ Vous entendrez : Des témoignages de transition vers des carrières hors du milieu universitaire Les défis et avantages de la multidisciplinarité L’importance de redéfinir le succès après le doctorat Des conseils concrets sur la valorisation de la recherche et les compétences transférables Un dialogue riche avec le public étudiant 👉 Que vous soyez en début ou en fin de parcours, cet épisode vous éclairera sur les possibles qui vous attendent après la thèse. Épisode enregistré en direct – qualité de son variable

What happens when a high-powered executive walks away from a billion-dollar corporate role to build a life of passion-driven ventures? In this episode of Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD, David speaks with George Appling – former McKinsey partner turned “passionpreneur,” festival founder, and author of Don't Settle: A Pick-Your-Path Guide to Intentional Work. George shares his transformative pivot from strategy consulting and telecom leadership to launching a medieval theme park, a summer camp rooted in artisan crafts, a mead company, and a nonprofit for veterans. His story is a blueprint for mid-career reinvention and aligning work with personal values. 🎯 You’ll learn: Why a calendar reminder changed George’s life at age 36 How to design your exit from corporate success to purpose-led work What “intentional work” means and how to find it Tips for using long-term planning to fuel major career transitions Insights on leveraging business acumen for meaningful impact Tune in to explore how George found freedom and fulfillment after industry – and how you can, too. 🎧 Subscribe now and share this episode with a friend exploring non-academic paths.

What if your academic CV is working against you? This week on Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD, creative strategist and branding expert Michael Dargie joins David Mendes to reframe how researchers can become memorable in non-academic spaces. Drawing from his new book Brandjitsu, Michael shares his unique approach to personal branding, designed for introverts and extroverts alike. Learn why showcasing only 20% of your experience can be more powerful than oversharing, and how to shift the spotlight from your journey to your audience’s needs. You’ll learn: Why clarity beats complexity when talking about your PhD background How to tailor your “brand story” to industry audiences The difference between “showing up” and commanding attention How to overcome the emotional challenge of pruning your experience How to think like Yoda, not the hero, in your narrative Whether you’re navigating your next PhD career transition or still figuring out how to tell your story, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies. 📩 Share this episode with a colleague who’s preparing their elevator pitch. Keywords: personal branding for PhDs, PhD career transition, PhD to industry, transferable skills, LinkedIn for researchers

Dans cet épisode spécial d'Horizon PhD, je t’emmène à la rencontre de sept PhDs qui ont choisi une voie peu connue, mais pleine de sens : devenir scientifique en résidence dans une délégation du Québec à l’étranger. À Toronto, New York, Mexico, Rabat, Paris, Rome et à Séoul, ces jeunes scientifiques mettent leurs compétences au service de la diplomatie scientifique et de la coopération internationale au sein du programme de résidences scientifiques du Fonds de recherche du Québec. Leur point commun ? Le désir de faire rayonner la science québécoise à l'étranger. Tu entendras les témoignages de : Jonathan Faucher (psychologie), SER à Toronto Laurent Vinet (chimie), SER à New York Enrique Hernández-Rodriguez (sciences de l’environnement), SER à Mexico Véronique Boyer (littérature), SER à Paris Julie Babin (géographie politique), SER à Séoul Pierre-Luc Beauchesne (sociologie), SER à Rabat Alexane Thibodeau (biologie cellulaire et moléculaire), SER à Rome   🔍 Dans cet épisode, tu découvriras : Ce que signifie être “scientifique en résidence” Quelles compétences transférables tu peux valoriser hors académie Pourquoi il est important d'intégrer la science dans la diplomatie et les affaires publiques Des parcours variés qui sortent des sentiers battus   🎯 Si tu explores des options de carrière après le doctorat, cet épisode te montrera comment allier ton expertise à un impact international. 👉 Pour en découvrir davantage sur le programme des scientifiques en résidence du FRQ : frq.gouv.qc.ca/horizonphd

In this episode of Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD, I talk with Michelle Niemeyer - speaker, coach, and former attorney - about how to stay sharp, productive, and joyful without burning out. After experiencing burnout herself during her legal career and facing a life-changing health diagnosis, Michelle developed The Art of Bending Time: a framework to help professionals align their work, life, and purpose. Together, we explore: Why traditional “time management” often fails, and what to focus on instead The hidden costs of multitasking and how to protect your energy How small sparks of joy can prevent burnout and fuel your productivity Why “work-life balance” is a myth and what to aim for instead Practical tools (like the Clarity Exercise and SWORD Analysis) you can use today to refocus and reclaim your time Whether you’re a graduate student, postdoc, or early-career professional, Michelle’s story and strategies will inspire you to rethink how you spend your time and how you define success. 👉 To access Michelle’s free tools, text CLARITY to 33777 (US only) or visit michelleniemeyer.com.

How do you go from scientist to science-informed coach helping women in STEM manage stress and avoid burnout? In this powerful episode of Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD, I sit down with Lexi Reid - a former plant biologist and regulatory affairs specialist who found herself emotionally depleted after years in academia, government, and the medical device industry. Lexi shares her deeply personal and transformative journey of confronting burnout and rediscovering purpose through creativity, neuroscience, and mindfulness. Now a certified coach and founder of MIND+ART+WELLNESS, Lexi supports high-achieving women in science to reconnect with themselves using accessible, evidence-based tools. Her story is a reminder that a PhD doesn't just prepare you for research - it can also guide you toward reinvention and well-being. 🎧 You’ll learn: • What burnout looked like for Lexi and how she responded • How plant science, policy, and medtech shaped her post-PhD path • The role of art and mindfulness in her healing process • Tips for high-achieving women navigating stress and transition • Why structure, story, and self-compassion are key for career sustainability 🖥️ Learn more about Lexi’s work: mindartwellness.com 📸 Connect with her on Instagram: @lexireidstudio 🔗 More career transition stories: PapaPhD.com/subscribe ☕ Talk with David  on Skool: PapaPhD.com/Skool

What happens after you land your first job post-PhD? For many researchers, the transition from academia is just the beginning. In this episode of Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD, Katerina Thomas joins David Mendes to explore how mentorship, self-awareness, and internal motivation shape the next stages of a PhD’s career journey. Drawing from her own experience as a PhD in the life sciences now thriving in industry, Katerina reflects on redefining success beyond titles, finding mentors aligned with your values, and the importance of stepping into discomfort to grow. Whether you're still in academia or have already made the leap, this conversation will help you think more intentionally about your career path and about what truly drives you. 💡 You’ll learn: How to navigate career growth after leaving academia The role of values-based mentorship in professional development Why inner work is essential in career transitions Strategies for making deliberate, fulfilling career choices This episode is packed with career clarity insights for PhDs seeking purpose beyond their degrees. 👉 Listen and share with someone navigating their own post-PhD transition.

Dans cet épisode d’Au-delà de la thèse avec Papa PhD, je reçois l’essayiste et professeur Mathieu Bélisle. Ensemble, nous revisitons son parcours universitaire marqué par des doutes, des abandons et une reconquête progressive du sens à travers l’enseignement collégial. Ce témoignage nuancé aborde la pression académique, la fatigue mentale en doctorat, et la quête de sens qui pousse parfois à sortir des sentiers battus de l’université. 🎓 Vous entendrez : Pourquoi le début du doctorat peut être plus difficile que la fin Comment alléger les attentes peut sauver un parcours doctoral Les dessous politiques du monde académique Ce que le cégep peut offrir aux esprits critiques et passionnés Un épisode introspectif pour quiconque se questionne sur l’avenir postdoctoral, la valeur d’un doctorat en dehors de l’université, et les choix professionnels alternatifs comme l’enseignement collégial. 🎙️ 👉 Abonnez-vous pour des récits de parcours variés et des stratégies concrètes de transition professionnelle.

🎙️ This week on Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD, Lucia Juarez, PhD, academic coach and creator of the SmartPhD system, joins us to talk about how PhD students can reclaim their time, boost academic confidence, and finish faster without sacrificing their wellbeing. Drawing from her own journey through burnout, motherhood, and academic overwhelm, Lucia shares how she shifted from “just work harder” to a smarter, more human approach to research. Her strategies blend mindset work, intentional rest, and productivity tools like the Pomodoro technique, all tailored to the realities of grad school. 💡 In this episode: Why mindset shifts are critical to academic resilience How to adapt productivity tools like Pomodoro to your real life Tips for managing burnout and avoiding toxic productivity How to create joy, not just survival, in your PhD journey Whether you're in the early stages or nearing the finish line, this conversation is packed with practical, heartfelt advice to help you thrive in grad school and beyond. 🎯 Your PhD doesn’t have to cost your health. 📱🎧 Tune in now.

Bienvenue dans ce nouvel épisode d’Horizon PhD! Dans cet épisode, nous partons à la rencontre de Geneviève Rolland, déléguée générale du Québec à Munich, pour mieux comprendre le rôle des scientifiques en résidence au sein des délégations du Québec à l’étranger. Au fil de l’entretien, Geneviève partage son expérience au sein du programme, explique le quotidien de ces jeunes scientifiques qui mettent leurs compétences multidisciplinaires au service du rayonnement international du Québec, et revient sur l’importance de la curiosité, de l’adaptabilité et du réseautage dans ces carrières hors du laboratoire. Ensemble, ils démystifient la transition entre le milieu académique et celui des représentations diplomatiques, et livrent des conseils précieux à celles et ceux qui hésitent encore à franchir ce pas.     À retenir de ma conversation avec Geneviève :  Ce n’est pas un programme de recherche :  La résidence scientifique, c’est avant tout devenir un pont entre le Québec et l’écosystème local, faciliter les collaborations et aider à financer et organiser des projets internationaux, pas poursuivre vos propres travaux académiques.  Vos compétences de PhD sont valorisées : Savoir vulgariser, être polyvalent·e, avoir une curiosité naturelle et une capacité à s’adapter sont des atouts majeurs. Votre expertise et votre réseau québécois rendent l’équipe plus forte et créent de la valeur ajoutée.  Des retombées concrètes et un impact réel : De la cartographie de réseaux à la création de partenariats et à l’organisation de missions, les résultats sont tangibles. C’est une superbe façon de contribuer différemment au développement scientifique et économique du Québec. Envie d’en savoir plus ou tenté·e de postuler ? N’hésite pas à écouter l’épisode, à explorer le programme Horizon PhD, ou à contacter celleuxs qui sont déjà passés par là – tout commence par une conversation ! . Si tu veux en savoir davantage sur les programmes « Scientifiques en résidence » des Fonds de Recherche du Québec, rends-toi sur : PapaPhD.com/HorizonPhDFRQ   Bonne écoute et bonne exploration !   Tu aimeras aussi ces épisodes : Anne-Marie Pilote – Valoriser son doctorat en tant que scientifique en résidence : PapaPhD.com/horizon-phd-ampilote Julie Ducharme – Être scientifique en résidence À Los Angeles : PapaPhD.com/horizon-phd-julie-ducharme Horizon PhD – Le conseil scientifique dans un ministère : PapaPhD.com/horizon-phd-darine-ameyed Horizon PhD – Être scientifique en résidence auprès d’un ministère : PapaPhD.com/horizon-phd-alexandra-gelle

🎓 Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD is the podcast that helps researchers, graduate students, and PhDs explore career possibilities beyond academia. Hosted by David Mendes, each episode shares real stories of PhDs who have successfully transitioned into diverse roles across industry, government, communication, and entrepreneurship. With over 300 interviews and listeners in 100+ countries, this show is a treasure trove for anyone navigating the challenges of life after grad school. In this trailer, discover what the podcast is all about and why it’s become a top destination for PhDs seeking career clarity, inspiration, and strategies for thriving outside the ivory tower. 👉 Follow Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts to start your journey from PhD to purpose-driven career.

Welcome back to Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD! In this episode, host David Mendes sits down with Jillian Rilley – founder, writer, keynote speaker, and consultant whose decades of work focus on helping people navigate change and accelerate learning, especially in disruptive times. Drawing on her experiences across Africa, Asia, and Central Europe, Jillian shares her personal journey of making bold transitions, including her pivotal move from academia in the U.S. to South Africa during a historic turning point. ogether, David and Jillian dive deep into the concept of “the 10 Permissions,” the subject of Jillian’s upcoming book, offering guidance for anyone feeling stuck on their current path or struggling with the weight of external expectations. The conversation takes an honest look at the discomfort and growth that comes from choosing a non-linear, self-directed life—especially relevant for graduate students, early career researchers, and anyone stepping off the well-trodden academic or career path. They discuss concrete practices for building “discomfort tolerance,” the power of self-permission, and the importance of cultivating a diverse portfolio of experiences—both for personal satisfaction and future adaptability. If you’ve ever faced doubt, disappointment, or confusion from your support network over career decisions, or are simply looking to make your journey more intentional, this episode is filled with insight and practical advice for you.   Jillian Reilly is a founder, writer, keynote speaker, and consultant. Having spent her 30-year career working in social, organizational, and individual change across Africa, Asia, and Central Europe, Jillians focus is on helping people unlock their ability to navigate change and accelerate growth and learning. Jillians upcoming book, The Ten Permissions, guides readers in permitting themselves to design lives that fully leverage the possibilities of our disruptive world. What we covered in the interview: Discomfort Tolerance is a Superpower: Learning to distinguish between discomfort and danger is crucial. Most growth happens when we venture into the unfamiliar, so don’t let discomfort masquerade as danger and hold you back from essential, uncomfortable conversations or bold decisions. Approval is Desirable, Not Essential: Especially when making “novel” decisions that disappoint or surprise family and close ones. Your path won’t always be easily understood by others, but their approval isn’t a requirement for action. Back yourself, be your own permission giver. Diversify Your Experiences: Academia often encourages tunnel vision, but Gillian urges building a “portfolio of capabilities.” Explore beyond your specialization – network, revive old hobbies, join communities, and experiment. This adaptability and broad perspective are key assets in today’s chaotic (yet possibility-filled) world. Jillian’s advice is a timely reminder: Your life isn’t about ticking the next institutional box, but about cultivating agency and resilience for a world in constant flux. See the resources section below for Jillian Reilly’s links! This episode’s resources: The 10 Permissions | Website The 10 Permissions | Book Thank you, Jillian Reilly! If you enjoyed this conversation with Jillian, let her know by clicking the link below and leaving her a message on Linkedin: Send Jillian Reilly a thank you message on Linkedin! Click here to share your key take-away from this interview with David! Leave a review on Podchaser ! Support the show !   You might also like the following episodes: Daria Levina – Behind the Scenes of Graduate Admissions Morgan Foret – Demystifying Industry Careers Al Zdenek – From Graduate School to Financial Freedom Sylvie Lahaie – Navigating Stress and Anxiety in Graduate School

Welcome back to Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD! In this week’s episode, host David Mendes is joined by Al Zdenek—a seasoned entrepreneur in the wealth management industry, acclaimed author, and passionate advocate for financial literacy. With over 40 years of experience as a CPA, personal financial specialist, and now co-founder of K Club, Al brings invaluable insights to academics navigating the often daunting shift from the structured world of academia to the uncharted waters of industry and business. Together, David and Al dive deep into practical strategies for salary negotiation, understanding job offers, and mastering the critical financial decisions that come with career transitions. Al reflects on the importance of self-awareness, preparation, and communication, sharing both personal stories (like taking up classical piano at the age of 66!) and professional wisdom to empower graduate students and researchers making their next big move. Whether you’re on the verge of leaving academia, struggling with financial fears, or simply curious about negotiating for your true worth, this episode is packed with advice and real talk that will help you prepare for, and thrive in, your next chapter. Tune in for a blend of actionable finance tips, empathy, and encouragement—plus get the inside scoop on tools like the K Club app that can support you every step of the way.   Al Zdenek is a seasoned financial planner, wealth advisor, and certified public accountant (CPA) whose career centers on helping people navigate the complexities of personal finance. Early in his journey, Al recognized the importance of asking the right questions about employment benefits—pension plans, 401(k) matches, and opportunities for student loan assistance. He saw firsthand how critical it was for individuals to understand what employers offered, from tuition reimbursement to promotion opportunities tied to further education. Throughout his career, Al has encouraged individuals to consider both traditional employment and self-employment, believing that being a consultant opens doors to valuable tax deductions and greater financial control. He stresses the importance of assembling a “championship team” of experts—including a trustworthy CPA—to maximize savings and stay compliant. Whether advising on employee benefits, self-employment strategies, or optimal tax planning, Al’s focus is always on empowering others to make informed decisions and build lasting wealth. What we covered in the interview: Do Your Financial Homework: Treat your job search like a research project—do the same kind of prep you would for a thesis. Understand salary ranges, benefit packages, student loan repayment options, and even company stock programs before your first interview. Ask Strategic Questions: Don’t hesitate to inquire about stock options, loan repayment assistance, work hours, and advancement opportunities. Bringing a well-prepared list of questions makes you look savvy and helps you negotiate from a position of strength. Embrace Growth and Flexibility: Expect and accept initial setbacks—rejection is normal, and it’s part of the learning curve. Practice your communication skills, seek mentorship, and don’t be afraid to pivot in your career path. Real-world success is built on flexibility and continuous learning. Big thanks to Al Zdenek for demystifying this crucial transition. Whether you’re about to defend your thesis or already eyeing roles outside academia, this episode is packed with actionable insights on building a solid financial future.  See the resources section below for Al Zdenek’s links! This episode’s resources: CakeClub App | Website Master Your Cash Flow | Book Master Your Business Cash Flow | Book Thank you, Al Zdenek! If you enjoyed this conversation with Al, let him know by clicking the link below and leaving him a message on Linkedin: Send Al Zdenek a thank you message on Linkedin! Click here to share your key take-away from this interview with David! Leave a review on Podchaser ! Support the show !   You might also like the following episodes: Daria Levina – Behind the Scenes of Graduate Admissions Morgan Foret – Demystifying Industry Careers Karina Machado – Being a Young Scientist in the Global South Sylvie Lahaie – Navigating Stress and Anxiety in Graduate School

In this episode of Beyond the Thesis with Papa PhD, host David Mendes sits down with Dr. Karina do Santos Machado, a trailblazing young scientist from Brazil whose journey exemplifies the power of collaboration and open science in the global South. Karina shares her path from a childhood fascination with computers to becoming a principal investigator leading cutting-edge drug discovery research with global impact, all from her home base in Rio Grande.   Facing the challenges of limited funding, infrastructure hurdles, and fewer resources common to universities in developing countries, Karina highlights how resourcefulness and community spirit have been fundamental to her success. Collaboration is not only a choice but a necessity in the Brazilian scientific landscape. By building networks both within her institution and internationally, Karina has leveraged open science initiatives to propel her team onto the world stage, including successful participation in global drug discovery challenges such as Conscience's CACHE initiative for COVID-19 therapeutics.   As Karina explains, open science has been key in providing access to critical data, software, and partnerships, democratizing opportunities for smaller labs like hers. Her story is a testament to how determined scientists, even from under-resourced environments, can foster innovation and make tangible contributions to global health.   Karina dos Santos Machado holds a degree in Computer Engineering from the Universidade Federal de Rio Grande and a Master’s and Ph.D. in Computer Science from the Pontifícia Universidade Católica of Rio Grande do Sul. Between 2018 and 2019, she worked as a postdoctoral fellowship in the NANO-D research group at INRIA in Grenoble, France. She is currently a Lecturer at FURG, working in the graduate programs in Health Sciences and Computer Science, where she coordinates the Computational Biology Laboratory. Her research focuses primarily on Bioinformatics and Data Science, including the following topics: Genomics, Machine Learning, Virtual Drug Screening, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics.   Three Inspiring Take-aways from my conversation with Karina: Collaboration is a Superpower: In environments where resources are scarce, building bridges—within your university and beyond—makes it possible to tackle complex scientific problems. Don’t hesitate to ask for help, offer your expertise, and create interdisciplinary teams; together, you go further. Open Science Levels the Field: By embracing open-source tools, sharing data, and participating in global challenges, you can give your work international visibility and validation, regardless of your location or funding status. Open science isn’t just a philosophy; it’s a passport to global research networks and impact. Your Local Challenges Have Global Resonance: The unique scientific questions you face in your community, like drug resistance in tuberculosis, are shared by the worldwide research community. Your perspective and commitment to real-world problems can drive both local solutions and contribute to advancing science on a global scale.   Karina's journey proves that with innovation, community, and openness, you can thrive and lead in science, no matter where you start.  If you’re curious about AI, biosciences, or just want to see how resilient, creative science happens outside the “usual” power centers, this episode is a must-listen. Reach out to Karina on LinkedIn, and check out the episode for more wisdom! Let’s build a more open, global scientific community together.  See the resources section below for Daria Levina’s links! This episode’s resources: X | Karina Machado CONSCIENCE | Webpage CACHE Challenges | Webpage Thank you, Karina Machado! If you enjoyed this conversation with Karina, let her know by clicking the link below and leaving her a message on Linkedin: Send Karina Machado a thank you message on Linkedin! Click here to share your key take-away from this interview with David! Leave a review on Podchaser ! Support the show !   You might also like the following episodes: Daria Levina – Behind the Scenes of Graduate Admissions Morgan Foret – Demystifying Industry Careers Tina Persson –Leaving Academia and Embracing Industry Sylvie Lahaie – Navigating Stress and Anxiety in Graduate School