Am I in the wrong here....?

Originally Posted by Warthog

He is obviously a bit upset about quitting his PhD, and he already feels a bit like he's let himself down I'd expect, so his knee-jerk comment is likely to mean very little. As for his not needing a PhD to progress, I have to beg to differ. If he wants to stay in research, does he want to lead a group? To get a lectureship, or proffessorship? Get more money than just a high research associate wage? I know some very good research associates, but you NEED a PhD to progress significantly in academic research. Simple as that.

I cannot comment on what you need - this was my impression but apparently he thinks that if he becomes a lecturer with his own lab then the only thing he will be doing is grant apps and preparing presentations for conferences. He doesn't enjoy doing that so he thinks that he only wants to be a research associate working for someone else either in academia or in the private sector

Originally Posted by Warthog

He is obviously a bit upset about quitting his PhD, and he already feels a bit like he's let himself down I'd expect, so his knee-jerk comment is likely to mean very little. As for his not needing a PhD to progress, I have to beg to differ. If he wants to stay in research, does he want to lead a group? To get a lectureship, or proffessorship? Get more money than just a high research associate wage? I know some very good research associates, but you NEED a PhD to progress significantly in academic research. Simple as that.

^ This is my view. I think he probably realises he needs the PhD and is quietly kicking himself about it and your comment just made it hit home a bit more. I've got a friend in a similar situation and whenever I've tried discussing it with him, I can sense him clamming up and not being comfortable discussing it. As a result, I just don't mention it anymore. I think he probably needs to realise it for himself/decide to do something about it off his own bat. I think your mate is probably the same.

I agree 29 is quite old, but (with no disrespect to academics) if he has only ever been in an academic environment and not worked properly, it's understandable that he hasn't really grown up at that age.

Originally Posted by Ceri JC

I agree 29 is quite old, but (with no disrespect to academics) if he has only ever been in an academic environment and not worked properly, it's understandable that he hasn't really grown up at that age.

PMSL!!! ACE COMMENT!!!

i must admit i kind of agree with you

Originally Posted by 600+

PMSL!!! ACE COMMENT!!!

i must admit i kind of agree with you

Sod of, kiddos!