Academia to Industry: Empowering Researchers Beyond Academia

As part of its commitment to supporting researchers’ professional development and broadening career perspectives, the VISION Project hosted a four-day “Academia to Industry” training at the Institut Pasteur de Tunis.

Led by Elena Moreno Castillo, PhD, from the Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), the training was designed to help researchers better understand the transition from academia to industry and develop the practical skills needed to navigate new professional opportunities.

Across four days of interactive sessions and practical exercises, participants explored key aspects of career development beyond the academic environment. The programme covered:

• Exploring career opportunities beyond academia and understanding the language, expectations and working environments of industry.
• Analysing job opportunities and identifying how to adapt CVs and applications to industry positions.
• Building a professional online presence, with a particular focus on using LinkedIn effectively.
• Developing networking skills and creating meaningful professional connections.
• Preparing for job interviews through practical exercises and role-playing activities.
• Understanding salary negotiation and developing strategies for professional discussions during the recruitment process.

By combining practical tools, interactive exercises and opportunities for discussion, the training encouraged participants to reflect on their transferable skills and consider how their research experience can translate into different professional environments.

The course forms part of VISION’s broader efforts to strengthen researchers’ employability, support talent development and create stronger links between academia and industry.

The VISION team warmly thanks Elena Moreno Castillo for bringing her expertise, enthusiasm and energy to the training, as well as all participants for their active engagement and contributions throughout the four days.

Through initiatives such as this, VISION continues to support researchers in expanding their career horizons and building the skills and professional networks needed to explore opportunities beyond academia.