How many postdocs leave academia?

Many postdocs decide to move from academia to industry, often due to better earning potential and career prospects. Transition words such as "however" and "also" help to link the often uncertain future prospects of this career path. Ultimately, the decision of many postdocs to leave academia is related to the limited academic promotion opportunities and the uncertainty of fixed-term contracts.

Around 60% of postdocs leave academia for good 35% of postdocs move to industry to continue their career there A further 15% find positions in other areas, such as the public sector or NGOs The main reasons for leaving academia are limited career options and funding uncertainty These figures illustrate the increasing trend of leaving academia and the various reasons that drive postdocs to choose alternative career paths.

Financial pressure is one of the most significant reasons for leaving academia. Postdocs often have to live with an insecure income. The low salary and insecure funding of research projects contribute to the fact that many look for better-paid alternatives.

Job security also plays a major role. In contrast to industry, academic positions often offer limited job security. Fixed-term contracts and constant competition for funding create additional stress.

Finally, personal interests drive many academics to make a change. Some seek a more practice-oriented career that offers more direct job prospects. These personal decisions are often driven by the need to have visible success and a clearer career perspective.

For postdocs who want to reorient themselves, there are a variety of career paths outside academia. Participating in bootcamps and retraining programs is an excellent way to immerse yourself in new professional opportunities. For example, programs in IT, such as those offered at neue fische, can teach practical skills and ease the transition into the tech industry. These courses are hands-on and guide participants straight into a successful career - an important step for anyone looking to change career direction. Such changes of direction are not only courageous, but often lead to impressive success stories. Internal links to course offers on neuefische.de can provide further information to help you find the right course.