Career path to a professorship: Junior highway to success!

Career path to a professorship: Junior highway to success!

In the academic world there are many paths that lead to the goal - especially when it comes to the desired title of professor. An exciting study of University of Konstanz examines the career paths of 334 postdocs between 2004 and 2023. The goal is clear: to analyze the chances of a lifetime professorship and to identify the most successful qualification paths.

The results are promising: a proud 66 percent of qualified scientists achieve a permanent professorship within nine years. The route via a junior professorship is particularly eye-catching, with a full 87 percent of people getting a permanent professorship at home or abroad. It turns out that all junior professors made the leap to full-time professorships during the period examined.

The different career paths

For many, the path to the academic elite is not quite as straightforward. Only 57 percent of scientists with a habilitation attain a professorship within nine years. Switching to other areas is also not uncommon: 23 percent of non-professors stay in the academic system, while 12 percent dare to switch to non-academic areas. A notable fact is that women leave science at a higher rate than their male colleagues.

The study, which uses a comprehensive survey method and is based on 95 percent of the cases, makes a valuable contribution to the discussion about scientific career paths in Germany. “It is time for other universities to also carry out such fate studies in order to enable nationwide comparisons,” emphasizes the responsible researcher. The University of Konstanz is already setting a good example and offers postdocs various support formats such as coaching and financial support through the Zukunftskolleg.

Prerequisites for success

But what qualities do you need to be successful in science? After one Federal report on young scientists 2021 Many professors have emphasized the essential importance of intrinsic motivation and a special enthusiasm for scientific work. Perseverance and tolerance for frustration are essential to gain a foothold in this industry. High communication skills, self-discipline and the ability to network are other cornerstones for a promising career.

Another important aspect is regular publications and the ability to apply for third-party funding. While other professions often require stability in one's place of residence, scientists often have a nomadic existence that requires at least a change of location after completing their doctorate. Flexibility is required here.

The career paths after completing your doctorate are also diverse. Whether you continue your academic career as a postdoctoral researcher at a university or a non-university research institution or venture into non-university professional practice - the options are wide-ranging. A classic path is the habilitation, while alternative options such as leading a junior research group or a tenure-track professorship also come into play Career paths in science clearly presented.

Overall, it shows that despite all the challenges, there are also many opportunities in science. 66 percent of those who take the right path are able to get started and survive in the academic landscape in the long term. With the right support and a bit of perseverance, it is possible to make your dream of a professorship come true.