From PhD Student to Assistant Professor: A Journey of Research Excellence

Introduction

Hello, I am a newly appointed assistant professor at a university in the United States. As a recent graduate, I wanted to share my experience with fellow PhD students who may be facing uncertainty and anxiety during their long doctoral journey. My message is simple: 'If you excel in research, you will be evaluated based on your research.'

My Background

I completed my bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in mechanical engineering at a university in South Korea. I am about to begin my first year as a postdoctoral researcher abroad. Despite having only eight months of postdoc experience and not coming from a top-tier university, I was fortunate enough to secure a faculty position.

The Key to My Success: Research Output

The primary reason for my relatively quick appointment was my publication record. While criteria may vary between institutions, I found that national universities in particular tend to quantify research output rigorously. In the past four years, I published six first-author papers (one in the top 1% of journals, one in the top 5%, and four in the top 20%). In my specific field, I've only encountered one or two other job-seeking PhDs with better records.

Advice for PhD Students

If you still enjoy research and aspire to work in academia or research institutions after graduation, focus on building a strong publication record. While factors like field fit and luck play a role, institutions that value research will recognize your efforts.

For Those at Prestigious Universities

Take advantage of the excellent research environment typically found at top institutions. Dedicate yourself to your research; you can achieve even more.

For Those Concerned About University Prestige

Focus on your research to ensure you're evaluated based on your work rather than your institution's name. Remember, those who want to be judged by their university's prestige often lack confidence in their research abilities.

Conclusion

While I'm somewhat embarrassed to present my personal experience and thoughts as definitive advice, I hope this provides some comfort and motivation. As I embark on my journey as a professor, I am committed to managing research funds ethically and creating a positive environment for my future graduate students.

Thank you for your attention, and best of luck in your research endeavors.