Pursuing a Research Career in CS Or: Why Get a PhD?

Outline Things to think about before getting a PhD The realities of doctoral studies Secrets to success Post-doctoral career opportunitiesf

Thinking of Getting a PhD? A Computer Science doctoral program is training for research and academia. A long, competitive road. High-risk, high-payoff for the right person.

Getting a PhD: Pros Entry point into a career in research and academia Intellectual freedom Interactions with smart people at the cutting edge of science Opportunity to contribute to science and society

Getting a PhD: Cons Takes a long time, in the prime of your life. Low pay. Little recognition (at first). Can be a cold, lonely experience. Welcome to the world of science– no more mercy. Overqualifies you for many career paths.

Realities of Doctoral Studies Main issues when considering programs: Advisor Research group Quality of life Reputation of University Axiom: Do not pay for a Computer Science PhD. Expect tuition + stipend (~14K-20K).

PhD Advisor The person who will control your life. Your main intellectual influence. Chooses your research direction. Approves or disapproves of your efforts. His/her reputation will establish or destabilize yours. Choose wisely!

Research Group Your immediate peers can have a heavy influence on your experience and career. Connections in your personal network. Research collaborators, now and in the future. Comrades in arms. Remember: you’ll be working with them every day once you start research.

Quality of Life A PhD program can become very difficult at times. A good QoL is ensured by: Opportunities for recreation and relaxation Support from friends and family To be successful, you need to maintain sanity and motivation.

Reputation of University As for other degrees, the reputation of a University is important, but: The quality of advisor and program in research specialty trumps school ranking. A name school is a nice calling card, but your advisor and peers are your network interface.

Secrets to Success Work hard Ally yourself with your advisor and peers Recognition takes a long time, in the meantime learn as much as you can Stay focused on science: in the end, good work distinguishes itself PhD study is an apprenticeship– not a cakewalk or indentured servitude.

Post Doctoral Realities So you’ve got your PhD. What now? Academia: become a Professor At a “Teaching University” At a “Research University” Private Research Groups Government Research (NSA,DoD,NASA,…) Technology Consulting Combine with other degrees (MD/PhD)…

Post Doctoral Realities The harsh realities of an academic career: Jobs are extremely scarce, competitive Tenure is a stressful and risky process No job security until you’re 40 The harsh reality of private research groups: They disappeared when the dotcom bubble burst

Still Interested? Good! Becoming a Professor is only one option for highly-trained professionals. Become involved in research as soon as you can. Find out if you really like it Research experience is a BIG advantage when applying to PhD programs

For More Information… One of the best resources for information on the web for computing research careers: Computing Research Association Browse their listing to get a feel for what’s out there.

Questions?