Can You Still Succeed in Academia if You Focus on Publishing Late in Your PhD?

Many PhD candidates and early career researchers wonder if it's still possible to find success in academia, especially if they start thinking about publishing in journals only in their last year of their PhD. While the ideal scenario is to begin thinking about publications early on, it is not too late to turn things around. However, the quicker you start catching up, the better your chances.

The Importance of Publishing in Academia

Academia is built on the foundation of shared knowledge. Ever since scientists began communicating their discoveries through written correspondence, academic communities have thrived on the exchange of ideas and findings. Publishing your research is not merely a formality; it is a fundamental responsibility that contributes to the collective progress of your field.

Strategies for Getting Ahead

If you join a lab or begin a research endeavor in your last year of PhD, it is crucial to adopt a proactive mindset towards publishing. Here are some strategies to help you stay on track:

Start Early: Begin thinking about publications as soon as you step into the lab or start working on research projects. This helps you keep your research goals aligned with your publishing aspirations. Apply for Faculty Positions: In certain fields, such as biomedical sciences, where faculty positions are often offered to PhD graduates, being behind in publications might significantly impact your chances of getting hired. Postdoc Research: If you plan to pursue a postdoc, you have a window to catch up and increase your publication count. This is particularly important when applying for funding, as your productivity is evaluated based on your publication history.

If you plan to remain in academia, it's essential to view everything you do in terms of its potential for publication. This means staying focused on projects that align with publishable outcomes. If a project does not seem to fit into the framework of a publishable study, reconsider allocating resources to it.

Expectations in Different Fields

The level of emphasis on publishing can vary significantly across different academic fields. In STEM disciplines, it is often expected to have multiple publications before completing your PhD. However, in the humanities, the publication requirements are less strict. Having a single publication in a top-tier journal can look impressive on your CV.

Academic positions also differ in their expectations of publication:

Research Institutions: Schools focused on research prioritize publications and research productivity. Community Colleges: These institutions may require fewer publications, emphasizing instead on teaching and service experiences. Balanced Institutions: Some colleges might expect occasional publications while focusing more on teaching.

A Personal Story

I should note that my experience is not the norm, but I successfully obtained an academic job in the humanities without any peer-reviewed publications. While I had published some other works, the recognition I received through other channels was sufficient for a private liberal arts college that supports research but prioritizes teaching.

Conclusion

The key takeaway is that while starting early is ideal, it's not too late to make a significant impact in academia. If you are behind, prioritize your efforts towards publishing and ensure your research aligns with the expectations of your field and institution.