Employ.ed for PhDs
Advice on undertaking an internship during your PhD, and information about the Employ.ed for PhDs internship programme.
PhD internships are increasingly popular in today’s competitive job market. An internship helps you to:
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expand your skill set beyond the skills you are acquiring as a doctoral researcher
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establish a valuable network outside of your department or institution
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gain experience in a workplace or industry that’s new to you
The Employ.ed for PhDs programme is just one way to find an internship. For other suggestions, and advice on how to gain the maximum benefit from your internship, see the resources below.
Employ.ed for PhDs
The Careers Service, with various University of Edinburgh departments and external employers, runs the Employ.ed for PhDs internship programme. These opportunities are designed to enhance your skills, attributes and employability. They are:
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open to all matriculated University of Edinburgh PhD students
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project based fixed-term contracts
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paid at University of Edinburgh Grade 5 (entry level) rate
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between 4 and 12 months in length
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no more than 9 hours per week for a full-time student
Further information on the average 9 hours per week limit
“The job itself has been a welcome relief from the daily intensity of doing research as a PhD student, whilst also giving me a chance to use my research skills for a different purpose. The flexible working hours have allowed me to work round the demands of my PhD. It has been an ideal way to earn some money, under flexible and supportive working conditions within a university setting, applying some of the research and organisational skills I possess.”
Previous projects have included:
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Communications PhD Intern with the Institute for Academic Development
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Technology Transfer with Edinburgh Innovations
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Sustainable Business Models for Online Learning with Information Services
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Research Impact Tracking with Moray House School of Education & Sport
Hear from a previous Employ.ed For PhDs intern, Frances Rowbottom: Broadening my horizons with an Employ.ed for PhDs internship – Inform.ed
Internships are advertised on the University’s student jobs portal. Search for ‘Employ.ed for PhDs’.
University's student jobs portal
You need to upload a CV and Covering Letter for each internship you want to apply to. All opportunities close at 5pm UK time.
Support for your personal development
Use these resources to help you at all stages of your PhD internship. They include exercises to help you prepare for, record and review your experience.
Download these resources to take advantage of interactive elements.
The Careers Service aims to be accessible to all users. If you require these publications in an alternative format, such as large print or a coloured background please phone 0131 650 4670 or email careers@ed.ac.uk to alert us to your needs.
Guidance on:
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finding the right internship opportunity
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applying for an internship
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negotiating the conditions of your internship
Identify goals for your internship and review your progress. This guide offers:
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guidance on identifying your working style and your typical role in a team
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an opportunity to reflect on these in order to stand out and be effective at your host organisation
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tips and advice on workplace culture and how to deal with common issues
Record and reflect on your progress throughout your internship. This guide offers:
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an opportunity to capture the valuable experience you have gained
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the ability to make a record of any new skills and/or contacts you have acquired
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advice on what to do after a PhD internship in relation to your wider career plans and aspirations
For more information about PhD internships contact the Internships and Work Experience Team: