Case Study

8

min read

Case Study

8

min read

Case Study

8

min read

Beyond the Wrong Job: A PhD’s Fast Transition to a Fulfilling Role - A Case Study

Beyond the Wrong Job: A PhD’s Fast Transition to a Fulfilling Role - A Case Study

Beyond the Wrong Job: A PhD’s Fast Transition to a Fulfilling Role - A Case Study

See how a PhD graduate uncovered the root of his career dissatisfaction using behavioral insights and transitioned into a people-focused role that reignited his energy and aligned with his strengths.

See how a PhD graduate uncovered the root of his career dissatisfaction using behavioral insights and transitioned into a people-focused role that reignited his energy and aligned with his strengths.

See how a PhD graduate uncovered the root of his career dissatisfaction using behavioral insights and transitioned into a people-focused role that reignited his energy and aligned with his strengths.

Table of contents
Subscribe to our newsletter

In the realm of leadership, few figures stand as tall as Bill Walsh. His strategies transformed not just teams, but the very essence of leadership itself. Walsh's approach was rooted in discipline, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. He taught us that success is not merely a destination but a journey paved with hard work and resilience. Embrace the lessons of leadership that Walsh imparted, and you will find the keys to unlocking your potential as a leader.

SITUATION

After completing his PhD, a client accepted a research-focused project management role at an institute, believing it would be a great fit. However, after a year in the position, he felt increasingly drained and isolated. Despite others praising his job as an excellent opportunity, he struggled to find fulfillment and couldn't understand why. Seeking clarity, he reached out for support to determine how he could feel more energized in his work.

STRATEGY + RESULTS

We began by conducting a Birkman assessment to gain insights into his interests, task priorities, work style, and social interaction preferences. In addition, we explored his personality traits, response to feedback, and communication style to identify potential career blockers. The results revealed that he thrived in social, people-oriented environments and that the administrative and isolated nature of his current job was misaligned with his natural work style. At the same time, maintaining a connection to technology and Life Sciences remained essential to his career satisfaction.

With these insights, he shifted his job search toward roles in sales and marketing, where he could leverage his technical expertise while engaging with people. After refining his applications, he was soon invited for an interview for an Application Specialist position. Within just two months, he successfully transitioned into a new role that aligned with both his interests and energy drivers.

Where They Started. Where They Are Now.

  • 🎓 PhD → 🧪 Biotech R&D Scientist

  • 🔬 Postdoc Researcher → 🧭 Project Manager, Drug Development

  • 🧬 Postdoc → 💼 Medical Science Liaison

  • 🧑‍🔬 Senior Scientist → 🏆 Team Lead, R&D (Pharma)

  • 🔬 Lab Tech → 🧑‍💻 Data Analyst in Pharma

  • 🧫 Bioinformatics PhD → 🧩 Technical Product Owner (HealthTech)

Still Figuring Things Out?

Not everyone arrives with answers, and that’s okay. If you’re unsure which path fits best, we can explore that together.

Where They Started. Where They Are Now.

  • 🎓 PhD → 🧪 Biotech R&D Scientist

  • 🔬 Postdoc Researcher → 🧭 Project Manager, Drug Development

  • 🧬 Postdoc → 💼 Medical Science Liaison

  • 🧑‍🔬 Senior Scientist → 🏆 Team Lead, R&D (Pharma)

  • 🔬 Lab Tech → 🧑‍💻 Data Analyst in Pharma

  • 🧫 Bioinformatics PhD → 🧩 Technical Product Owner (HealthTech)

Still Figuring Things Out?

Not everyone arrives with answers, and that’s okay. If you’re unsure which path fits best, we can explore that together.

Where They Started. Where They Are Now.

  • 🎓 PhD → 🧪 Biotech R&D Scientist

  • 🔬 Postdoc Researcher → 🧭 Project Manager, Drug Development

  • 🧬 Postdoc → 💼 Medical Science Liaison

  • 🧑‍🔬 Senior Scientist → 🏆 Team Lead, R&D (Pharma)

  • 🔬 Lab Tech → 🧑‍💻 Data Analyst in Pharma

  • 🧫 Bioinformatics PhD → 🧩 Technical Product Owner (HealthTech)

Still Figuring Things Out?

Not everyone arrives with answers, and that’s okay. If you’re unsure which path fits best, we can explore that together.

© 2025 Passage2pro. All rights reserved.

For Individuals

Clarity, confidence, and career direction—on your terms.

© 2025 Passage2pro. All rights reserved.

For Individuals

Clarity, confidence, and career direction—on your terms.

© 2025 Passage2pro. All rights reserved.

For Individuals

Clarity, confidence, and career direction—on your terms.

© 2025 Passage2pro. All rights reserved.

For Individuals

Clarity, confidence, and career direction—on your terms.