How I Wrote My End-of-PhD CV | Oxford Postgrad

TL;DR

Lucy shares her post-PhD CV example and tips for landing a research job, emphasizing relevance and conciseness.

Transcript

hey it's lucy it has been two years since i've updated my cv and that is because it has been two years since i was coming to the end of my phd and applied to the job that i've still got and still love since i wrote it my career has now changed direction so radically that i'll have to completely overhaul it and that means i might as well share that ... Read More

Key Insights

• ❓ Tailoring CVs to specific job requirements is crucial for success.
• ❓ Font choices should be professional and consistent throughout the CV.
• 🏝️ Highlighting relevant experiences and skills increases the chances of landing a job.
• 🪜 Including a hobbies section can add a personal touch and make the applicant memorable.
• 💁 Prioritizing conciseness while providing enough information is essential for an effective CV.
• 💁 Section formatting and content selection should align with the job description.
• 🏆 Awards and grants can be strategically placed in a CV to emphasize achievements.

Questions & Answers

Q: What font choices did Lucy make for her CV and why?

Lucy chose CMU Serif for her CV as it looks scientific, emphasizing clarity and professionalism. She considered different font options but settled on one to maintain consistency and theme throughout her CV.

Q: How did Lucy suggest tailoring CV sections based on the job description?

Lucy recommended aligning CV sections with the job requirements, emphasizing relevant skills and experiences for the specific role. She advised treating the CV like an exam question to showcase suitability for the position.

Q: Why did Lucy include a section on hobbies in her CV?

Lucy included a brief hobbies section to add a personal touch and help potential employers remember her. She highlighted that hobbies can indicate compatibility for certain job environments, showcasing a well-rounded personality.

Q: Why did Lucy prioritize conciseness and relevance in her CV?

Lucy stressed the importance of succinctly presenting key information to entice readers and encourage further discussion during interviews. She emphasized tailoring content to the job applied for to showcase suitability effectively.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Lucy shares her two-year-old CV that helped her secure her current job at a national laboratory.

• She emphasizes the importance of tailoring CVs for specific positions and highlighting relevant experiences.

• Lucy advises on formatting, content selection, and personal touches for effective CV writing.