Should you apply for that academic job before finishing your PhD? Here’s how to decide

You haven’t finished your PhD, so should you apply for an academic job or wait until you have your doctorate? You’re knee-deep in your PhD, juggling research, writing, and (let's be honest) just trying to keep life together… when BAM! An academic job pops up. Maybe it’s the dream role, maybe it’s just a role, but it’s tempting. It’s income. It’s a title. It’s a foot in the door. But should you really apply before you finish your PhD? Hi, I’m Dr Elizabeth Yardley and in this video, we’re going to talk this through - properly. Because I’ve supported SO many PhD students wrestling with this dilemma. Some went for it and thrived. Others… not so much. So let’s get real about the pros and cons of applying for academic jobs before you’ve got that shiny PhD certificate in hand. We’ll cover: ✅ The difference between ‘PhD essential’ and ‘PhD desirable’ job ads (and what they really mean) ✅ The brutal realities of academic workloads (yep, hamster wheel vibes) ✅ How to honestly assess whether you’re ready - or if it’s a fast track to burnout ✅ Why FOMO isn’t a reason to rush ✅ What to do if you DO go for it (and how to protect your time, energy, and sanity!) There’s no right or wrong here, just what’s right for you. And I’m here to help you make that call without the panic, pressure, or guilt. Hit play and let’s figure it out together! Chapters 0:00 – 1:30 Introduction – the problem with jobs and PhDs 1:31 – 3:05 The academic job market is tough 3:06 – 3:59 Are you actually ready for an academic job? 4:00 – 6:46 Can you handle the pressure of an academic job right now? 6:47 – 7:32 Know the institution before you apply 7:33 – 12:01 Why it might be worth it 📺 Other helpful videos Applying for an academic job    • Lecturer jobs in UK - how to apply   Interviewing for an academic job    • Lecturer job - how to ace the interview!   Presentations – stop being so boring    • PhD presentation - be a better public speaker   Conferences for introverts    • Academic conference - tips for introverts!   ▶️ See my videos early - before everyone else For early access to my videos, become a Degree Doctor channel member 👉    / @degreedoctor   📗 How qualitative PhDs really get finished There isn’t a magic formula. There isn’t a quick fix. And there definitely isn’t a super hack. Qualitative PhDs aren’t easy – and anyone who says they are isn’t being honest with you. But there IS a structured process that makes the whole thing more manageable. If you’re ready to get serious about finishing – and approach it with structure, clarity and intention – my PhD Survival Guides walk you through exactly how to do that. 👉Explore the guides: https://www.thedegreedoctor.com/phd-s... 📨 Me – in your inbox The real work of a PhD starts with clear thinking – that’s what my weekly emails are for. 👉 Join my email community: https://www.thedegreedoctor.com/emails