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

http://www.cra.org

Browse their listing to get a feel for what’s out there.

Questions?