Illuminating the shadowy path to success in academia

Venturing into academia after a PhD often means navigating a challenging landscape. The journey for postdocs and early career researchers (ECRs) is riddled with misconceptions and advice that could hinder your progression if no one sits you down to tell you the harsh truths.

This article aims to debunk prevalent myths and provide practical guidance for achieving success in the academic system as an ECR or postdoc.

Myth 1: The cream always rises to the top

The adage that “the cream will rise to the top” is a common mantra among successful academics, often used to explain their personal journey and imply that the system is purely meritocratic. However, a recent study showed that postdocs’ advice on pursuing a research career in academia included recognising that “academia is not a meritocracy” and “grantsmanship is necessary”.

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The blunt truth is that the days when sterling research alone would secure recognition and promotion are long gone, and those who underestimate the power of money in the academic game are likely to be left behind. Today, the ones most likely to rise to the top are those who can demonstrate an alignment between their work and the university’s bottom line.

Increasing competition for limited funds has resulted in the recognition of academics as economic assets, not just intellectual resources. Postdocs and ECRs are encouraged to pursue grant opportunities early in their careers, and frequently, regardless of the size of the grant on offer. Successful academics rise through the milky white underbelly of academia due to not just quality research, but to research that comes with the prospect of substantial funding.

In this new academic game, then, it’s easy to fixate on securing major grants, but ECRs should avoid viewing large funding wins as the ultimate testament of academic achievement. This narrow focus can result in missed opportunities.

Smaller, targeted funding sources, collaborations and resource sharing may not have the same prestige, but they can still play a pivotal role in sustaining research and advancing academic careers.

Myth 2: Good research speaks for itself

In an academic community brimming with brilliant minds and groundbreaking research, the belief that “good research speaks for itself” is optimistic but, unfortunately, misleading. Researchers need to master the art of not just conducting excellent research but also of effectively communicating its findings. That means treating your outreach and career more like a PR exercise.

I’m not just talking about writing a blog post and sending out a few tweets every now and then. Publicity in newspapers, industry-specific magazines and online news outlets can help to build momentum around your research, increasing its visibility both within and outside the university. Research that is highlighted in media outlets can command attention and spark interest among the public, potential collaborators and funding agencies alike.

My observations of successful ECRs reveal many who have crafted a distinct research brand identity through strategic publicity. They intertwine their academic achievements with a recognisable and engaging narrative. This not only enhances their individual recognition but also reflects positively on their affiliated university.

Universities thrive on good publicity, and they are eager to promote researchers whose work gains media attention. One of the most effective ways to generate this publicity is by establishing strong relationships with your university’s communication team and relevant journalists. Keeping these individuals in the loop and telling them when you have a new publication can lead to media coverage.

Just like academia itself, this is a numbers game. The more you reach out, the higher the chance of getting noticed.

Myth 3: Networking is all about going to conferences

Conferences have long been perceived as the primary networking platform for academics. However, equating networking solely with conference attendance grossly oversimplifies how relationships are built within academia. Today, networking requires understanding the intricate dynamics, power structures and personalities in the academic system.

While it may be uncomfortable to acknowledge, the reality is that academia, like any other profession, has its share of individuals with inflated egos and self-worth. Understanding how to navigate and work with these personalities is a crucial, albeit often overlooked, aspect of networking in the academic world. Working with more established academics, who often hold positions of power and influence within universities, for example, requires tact, resilience and strategic thinking.

Establishing common ground, finding overlapping research interests, discussing shared methodologies or engaging in conversation about mutual academic acquaintances or respected figures in your field goes a long way with power-hungry academics.

Get active early; reach out to (often young) researchers with common research interests to build a supportive network of collaborators from the start of your career.

The increasingly competitive nature of the sector has added an extra layer of complexity. It’s no longer just about contributing to science; it’s also about demonstrating your value to others, especially those in power.

Demonstrating your worth entails showing how your work aligns with the interests of influential academics, how it brings visibility and prestige to your institution (see Myth 2), and how it can boost the careers of those who associate with you.

Networking thus becomes more like chess; it’s about understanding the players, anticipating moves and positioning yourself strategically.

An informed, comprehensive strategy for academic success

Academia can be a daunting, intricate game, with goalposts that are continually shifting. But, fear not, you are more than capable of realising your ambitions.

By understanding this, ECRs can navigate their way up through academia with a more informed, holistic approach. Always strive for high-quality research, but remember, you also need to communicate your work, secure resources and strategically network.

Consider these as fundamental pillars for your growth.

Andrew Stapleton is a former researcher who started his YouTube channel, which focuses on academic AI tools, PhD advice and productivity, in 2016 and he also founded Academia Insider.

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