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Careers support for researchers

At the University of Birmingham, we prepare doctoral researchers to make an impact across every sector of society. Our PhD graduates are global change-makers: advancing knowledge, shaping policy, leading industries, and educating future generations.

  • Dedicated support for researchers

    At Birmingham, postgraduate researchers benefit from dedicated careers support tailored to their unique paths. Our expert team of Careers Advisers, including a dedicated postgraduate research adviser, offer one-to-one guidance to help researchers navigate career decisions both within and beyond academia.

    You’ll benefit from targeted support for applications and interviews as well as a mentoring programme which allows you to be matched with experienced professionals. You’ll also have the opportunity to attend careers events and workshops, ensuring you are well prepared for your next steps after graduation.

Built in Birmingham. Forged for the future.

From local schools and NHS Trusts to multinational corporations, NGOs, and international universities, University of Birmingham PhD graduates are making a difference. With a global alumni network spanning more than 100 countries, our doctoral community continues to shape the world through knowledge, innovation, and leadership.

Where do our Doctoral Researchers work?

As well as working in a wide range of well respected global Universities, our postgraduate researchers hold roles beyond academia. In partnership with Cturtle, we tracked the employment destinations of alumni who completed their courses up to 31 July 2024.
  • 1st

    University of Birmingham

    Cturtle

  • 2nd

    Aston University

    Cturtle

  • 3rd

    University of Oxford

    Cturtle

Top 10 employers

Ranking Employer
1 University of Birmingham
2 Aston University
3 University of Oxford
4 University of Nottingham
5 King’s College London
6 AstraZeneca
7 GSK
8 Jaguar Land Rover
9 Rolls-Royce
10 Unilever

Graduates are also self-employed, lead start-ups, or work with international NGOs, cultural institutions, and scientific think tanks.

Top 10 job roles

Ranking Job title
1 Research Fellow / Postdoctoral Researcher
2 Lecturer / Assistant Professor / Associate Professor
3 Professor / Senior Lecturer
4 Clinical Psychologist / Educational Psychologist
5 Director / Managing Director
6 Project Manager / Programme Manager
7 Data Scientist / Senior Scientist
8 CEO / Founder / Entrepreneur
9 Consultant / Partner
10 Policy Advisor / Research Officer

Source and ranking methodology

In partnership with Cturtle, we tracked the employment destinations of alumni who completed their courses up to 31 July 2024. This data includes students who graduated more than 10 years ago.

Employers in the Top 100 Graduate Employers list are ranked based on the headcount of alumni currently working at each organisation.

  • Enterprise and Innovation

    Whether you're interested in start-ups, social enterprise, or commercialising your research, you will have the opportunity to develop an entrepreneurial mindset at Birmingham.

    The B-enterprising team helps students and graduates start their own businesses. You can join special programmes, get funding to try out ideas, go to exciting events, and be part of a friendly start-up community.

    And through the Emerging Researchers Innovation Challenge (ERIC), you'll compete in teams to solve real world challenges. The aim of the challenge is to give postgraduate researchers a greater understanding of the benefits of developing entrepreneurial skills. Skills that are beneficial for research practice as well as your future career, whether in academia or not.

    Find out more about B-Enterprising

  • Mentoring opportunties

    Our mentoring programme offers a valuable opportunity to connect with experienced professionals, often UoB alumni, who can provide expert insights and guidance.

    The programme focuses on sectors beyond academia, helping PGRs build professional networks and gain perspectives from industry specialists. Whether seeking career advice, exploring new opportunities, or simply having a trusted mentor outside of academia, this initiative supports researchers in navigating their professional journeys with confidence.

  • Gaining work experience

    As a researcher you may also have the opportunity to teach alongside your research. As a Postgraduate Teaching Assistant (PGTA), you can gain valuable teaching experience alongside your studies, developing essential skills while supporting undergraduate learning.

    In addition, Worklink, the University's casual recruitment agency, is dedicated to helping you find flexible, part-time work on campus. Last year we had over 6,000 opportunities for students to work in roles across campus, ranging from one-off, short-term projects to longer, 3-month contracts.

    Job opportunities