PhD to consulting?

Question

Dear all,

I have a friend who is a PhD student in cancer studies and he is interested in making a switch into consulting.

He's from a pretty reputable London University (if that means anything) and he has 2 more years to the end of his PhD. His concern is that he has spent almost all of his free time in his lab instead of working in a business/corporate environment and wants to know if he stands a chance or what can he do to stand a chance in life sciences consulting.

Does anyone with life sciences consulting experience have any input?

Thank you!

Answer 1

Hi,

scientific PhDs are very appreciated by top-tier firms. E.g. McKinsey often offers to PhD graduates the Junior associate position.

Here you can find some other details (clicking on "Advanced professional degree candidates"): https://www.mckinsey.com/careers/students

Best,

Antonello

Answer 2

Dear A,

I would definitely recommend you and your friend to get some practical experience, ideally in terms of internships. Ideally in healthcare, industry or consulting directly, prior to applying for full-time position.

Hope, it helps,

Good luck,
André

Answer 3

Hi Anonymous,

as mentioned by Antonello, a PhD in life science is definitely appealing to consulting companies – I personally helped several PhD candidates to land offers.

I would recommend your friend to invest some time in internships with corporates, as the initial screening is competitive also for PhDs and showing business experiences is definitely going to increase the chances to be selected.

It would also be quite useful to invest time in finding referrals for the application. You can find more on referrals at the following link: https://www.preplounge.com/en/consulting-forum/hey-everyonehope-all-is-well-3176

Best,

Francesco

Answer 4

I think Guennael covered everything well, so won't repeat the various differences in expectation. However, as an im... (read entire answer)

I think Guennael covered everything well, so won't repeat the various differences in expectation. However, as an important side note: generally PhDs Don't enter at the same le... (read entire answer)

Answer 5

Hi, Answering your first question - if it requires a lot of prep - definitely not! It's just a line in your resume... (read entire answer)

Hi, Answering your first question - if it requires a lot of prep - definitely not! It's just a line in your resume and it's not guaranteeing anything. Answering your second... (read entire answer)

Answer 6

Hi! I believe good advice can only be given if your priorities are clear. So in the following, I will just assume t... (read entire answer)

Hi! I believe good advice can only be given if your priorities are clear. So in the following, I will just assume that MBB is your first priority (since this is what I am focu... (read entire answer)