Joaquim Vives, PhD
Contributing Editor
Banc de Sang i Teixits
Barcelona, Spain
I hold a PhD that introduced me to a career in biomedical research, first in academia, then in the biotech industry and I currently lead the development of Advanced Therapies in my own research group at the Blood & Tissue Bank in Barcelona, Spain. Although pursuing a PhD has been historically seen as a pathway to academic tenure or a career in basic research, the value of a PhD has evolved with the years and across disciplines. Particularly, the rise of the biopharmaceutical industry has resulted in an increased demand for skilled researchers in niche areas, causing a shortage of qualified workforce particularly in the Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) field (1). This situation may also be a great opportunity to equip a new generation of doctorates with a tailored set of skills and competences to fit current requirements in the field. However, the future success of this endeavour necessitates a redefinition of PhD programmes to address the specific needs of the Research development and Innovation (RDI) segment in the life cycle of CGT development from tissue procurement to management of clinical data. In this editorial, I want to briefly present some points that should be considered by PhD candidates before embarking on this journey, as well as fostering discussion among the stakeholders who undertake supervisory roles and/or design PhD programmes in the field of translational medicine.
Research is an intellectually stimulating activity that allows individuals to explore new frontiers in science and to make discoveries that hold the potential to change the World into a better place for all. While pursuing a PhD in biomedical research is not without its challenges, the opportunities for career advancement, the potential to contribute to Society, and the intellectual stimulation that comes with conducting research make it a rewarding and worthwhile endeavour for those with a passion for science and discovery. However, it is important for prospective students to carefully consider all aspects involved, particularly those related to the important investment of time (at least 4 years of your life), the level of commitment required (Science goes beyond office hours, Science is a way of life), the financial burden (low salaries or even the need for financial aid), a sense of being a “nomad” (travelling to conferences and/or placements in other labs), mental wellbeing (deal with stress and frustration), and the fierce competition with other scientists to be first in presenting new results or defending your thesis to other peers and publishing articles in international scientific journals.
First. PhDs are low-paid researchers (even worse, in some countries you’ll have to pay). Together with postdocs, PhD candidates boost universities’, and therefore countries’, research capacity. After this initial training, fortunately, a PhD should open doors to advance in academia and industry, including leadership positions, and are often a prerequisite for decision-making roles. A PhD provides deep expertise in a niche area, making you a valuable asset in fields like CGT, bridging the gap between laboratory research and clinical application, directly impacting patient care and health outcomes.
Second. interdisciplinary collaboration across scientific fields is an opportunity for PhD candidates, and also for PhD program designers, to shape a curriculum that will result in a unique professional profile comprising various aspects that may be of great value in the CGT field, from bioprocessing to data management, adding up to traditional cellular and molecular biology skills. Networking with leading researchers, clinicians, and industry professionals can subsequently foster further collaborations and career opportunities. In times of misinformation and proliferation of all sorts of influencers on social networks, where followers play a passive role in front of their mobile screens, I personally value that doing research has brought me the opportunity to meet Nobel laureates and other scientific “influencers” as well as inspiring mentors who have guided me to shape how I approach my own research. But please note that… I am a boomer! This brings me to the next point.
Third. The values and perspectives of different generations can influence the perception of the relevance of pursuing a PhD. For instance, a PhD requires intensive commitment for several years dedicated to study and research, which can significantly affect work-life balance, potentially leading to stress and burnout. The demanding nature of PhD programs can be dissuasive for many, as it conflicts with the values of Millennials and Gen Z with respect to maintaining personal well-being and a balanced life. Perhaps a PhD in the CGT field would attract younger generations because it offers high value on meaningful work with a tangible impact on Society. Indeed the potential to contribute to significant advancements in Healthcare through translational medicine research aligns well with the desire of younger generations to make a difference. Perhaps PhD programs that emphasize interdisciplinary collaboration and inclusive work environments would be more attractive to them.
Fourth. There is an uncertain job market for doctorates, at least in Academia, where it is highly competitive, with limited tenure-track positions available. On the other side, while industry opportunities are growing, competition remains fierce, requiring a strong publication record in leadership positions and relevant skills. Moreover, the uncertainties resulting from massive Artificial Intelligence (AI) implementation and automation may eventually replace even the most skilled researchers. Indeed, the rapid evolution of AI means continuous learning is necessary to stay current with new tools and methodologies, which also entails a risk that specific skills acquired during a PhD may become obsolete as technology advances. For Millennials and Gen Z, who are in general more comfortable with technology and more enthusiastic about integrating AI into their research, this could be an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation rather than a challenge.
Finally, it seems clear that making an informed decision on whether “to PhD or not to PhD” requires balancing many factors against personal and professional goals. From all, I wanted to highlight the relevance of commitment, passion and sense of purpose. For those passionate about advancing Healthcare and willing to navigate the complexities of the field, I believe that a PhD can be a highly rewarding endeavor.
Reference
1. Vives J, Sanchez-Guijo F, Gnecchi M, Zwaginga JJ. Cell and gene therapy workforce development: the role of the International Society for Cell & Gene Therapy (ISCT) in the creation of a sustainable and skilled workforce in Europe. Cytotherapy. 2023 Oct;25(10):1033-6. PubMed PMID: 37498257.
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