Preparation for career after PhD  
When a PhD candidate enters the final phase of the promotion trajectory, the question of what to do after the PhD becomes increasingly urgent. The PhD programmes at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam are an excellent stepping stone for a career both inside and outside academia. The PhD candidates have the opportunity to discuss various career prospects during the PhD programme.

The VU offers PhD candidates career orientation courses in the early stages of their promotion trajectory, and encourages them to work strategically towards their professional goals.

See also: Career development tips and good practices for PhD candidates & Postdocs and Presentation on career perspectives for PhD candidates.

A career outside of science
The vast majority of the PhD candidates will have to pursue a career outside academia after the PhD. It is therefore essential that early-stage researchers orient themselves to suitable positions in industry or a social context in good time, before their contract expires.

A career in science
If you aspire to a career in science, it is possible to apply for a postdoc position. This is a temporary research position of 2-4 years. For an overview of all postdoc positions (and other possible positions for a PhD, such as junior lecturer or researcher), please refer to the academic job site www.academictransfer.nl.

Most scientific positions at Dutch universities are (partly) funded by external research funds. Being able to acquire research grants is crucial for a career in science. The VU Grant Desk offers professional advice and dedicated support in acquiring external funding to researchers who want to pursue their career within academia.

Relation with VU after PhD
Regardless of the career path taken after receiving the PhD, all PhD candidates are offered a lifelong relationship of mutual benefit by inviting them to join the alumni network and remain part of the VU community.