What Are You Doing After Graduating from IISER?
After graduating from the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER), many students pursue various paths based on their interests and career goals. This article explores the common options available, providing insights into the choices made by graduates from this esteemed institution.
Higher Studies
A significant number of graduates opt for higher studies, aiming to pursue a Ph.D. or master’s degree in scientific research, engineering, or related fields. These post-degree programs are often pursued in prestigious institutions or universities across the world. The allure of cutting-edge research and gaining in-depth knowledge in a specialized field makes this path highly attractive to many IISER graduates.
Research Positions
Another popular route among IISER graduates is to seek research positions in academic institutions, government laboratories, or private research organizations. These roles involve contributing to ongoing scientific projects, conducting experiments, and analyzing data. This path offers a chance to delve deeper into specific areas of interest while making meaningful contributions to the scientific community.
Industry Jobs
Some students move into the corporate sector, taking up roles in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, data science, software development, or engineering. These industry jobs offer practical experience and the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Graduates find these roles appealing due to the potential for career growth and the chance to contribute to innovative projects.
Entrepreneurship
A small but notable number of graduates choose to start their own ventures. Leveraging their scientific knowledge, they develop innovative products or services that address specific market needs. This path requires a unique blend of technical expertise and entrepreneurial spirit, making it a rewarding choice for those who aspire to be at the forefront of technological advancements.
Teaching
Some graduates pursue careers in education, teaching at schools or colleges, or engaging in science communication and outreach. This path offers the satisfaction of nurturing young minds and fostering a passion for science among the next generation. Graduates who choose to teach can also contribute to science education by disseminating knowledge in creative and engaging ways.
Internships or Fellowships
Graduates might also undertake internships or fellowships to gain practical experience and explore different fields before making a long-term commitment. These opportunities provide valuable insights into various career paths and help students make informed decisions about their future careers.
Personal Story: Fourth Year at IISER
As of now, I am in my fourth year at IISER Mohali, a testament to the challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic. My plans for the future are clear: after graduating from IISER, I will not be applying for a job immediately. Instead, I will be applying for a Ph.D. in Astrophysics. It’s worth noting that working as a PhD researcher is often considered a job in many countries.
There are also many examples of graduates choosing to apply for jobs directly after IISER. The most prominent example I can remember is Gaurav Aggarwal, a Senior Actuarial Analyst, who participated in a recent alumni webinar with current students at IISER Mohali. Another example is User-13384383619272040534, who is a Senior Actuarial Analyst and was quite active on Quora when I applied for IISER.
Other graduates have chosen to pursue further studies like an MBA or a master’s in another subject before applying for jobs. This approach allows them to gain additional skills and knowledge before entering the workforce.
Conclusion
The choice of career path after graduating from IISER often depends on personal interests, career aspirations, and opportunities available at the time of graduation. IISER graduates have numerous options to explore, and the journey after graduation can be as varied as the individuals themselves.