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Pursuing a Research Career in CS

Considering a PhD in Computer Science? Learn about the benefits, challenges, and realities of doctoral studies, including post-doctoral opportunities. Explore key factors to weigh before embarking on a research career in academia. Find valuable insights on advisors, research groups, quality of life, and university reputation. Unveil the secrets to success and get a glimpse into post-doctoral career paths. Make informed decisions about pursuing a PhD in Computer Science.

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Pursuing a Research Career in CS

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  1. Pursuing a Research Career in CS Or: Why Get a PhD?

  2. Outline • Things to think about before getting a PhD • The realities of doctoral studies • Secrets to success • Post-doctoral career opportunitiesf

  3. 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.

  4. 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

  5. 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.

  6. 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).

  7. 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!

  8. 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.

  9. 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.

  10. 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.

  11. 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.

  12. 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)…

  13. 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

  14. 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

  15. 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.

  16. Questions?

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