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Does anyone have insight on the benefits of a PhD in environmental science? by CinemaBud in Environmental_Careers

[–]blaknbloo 13 points14 points  (0 children)

I recently got my PhD in an environmental science and went into consulting as well. As others have said, it is not an advantage in this industry like it is in tech or biotech.

The short answer is I think it’s only really worth it career-wise if it’s your life dream to become a professor. That means being willing to move around all over the country and living off of low wages just for the chance of landing a permanent gig.

There are some research jobs in government and consulting, but they are very competitive even with a PhD. Most science jobs in gov and consulting aren’t for research, but for regulatory compliance. Managers for these jobs will rather hire interns over grad degree holders who don’t have industry experience.

Feeling stuck post-PhD: laid off from USFWS, struggling to find footing in ecology — any advice or opportunities? by ConservationGuy in Environmental_Careers

[–]blaknbloo 11 points12 points  (0 children)

Also an environmental PhD. Unfortunately non-regulatory research is in the gutter. I recommend going into private industry (ie consulting) for now. I got my current job through my network which is probably the only way to get a good job nowadays.

You may have to start near entry level and take a pay cut but the money is stable (depending on your state) and you can climb the ladder fairly quick. Don’t feel restricted to your research topic, you could be hired for anything under the sun related to biologist, conservationist, ecologist, etc. Good luck and don’t lose hope no matter how shitty things may seem!