Building a career in academia involves more than research and teaching; it requires deliberate positioning, and an understanding of how academic advancement is assessed and achieved. In this second instalment of the Insight into Academia series, we will focus on how to develop and demonstrate the profile needed to move forward in an academic career.

Intended for Masters and Doctoral researchers considering academic pathways, this session will explore how individuals can prepare for academic roles and begin to position themselves for future progression — even at the early stages of their career.

We will cover:

• How academic progression typically works in the UK (from postdoc to professor)
• Common expectations and indicators of academic potential
• Building your academic identity and track record across research, teaching, and engagement
• The importance of visibility, networks, and strategic choices for positioning and reflection on the academic job market
• We will also offer practical tools and reflective prompts to help you identify development areas and take action to strengthen your positioning.

This series accompanies the Academia and Higher Education sector briefing available on the Careers Service website.

Other sessions in the series:

Insight into Academia: Myths and Realities of Academic Careers Panel Event (13-Nov-25)
Insight into Academia: Academic Application Materials (17-Nov-25)