What's next after your PhD?
We’ll help you discover what you’re good at
and how to find a job that fits you
You're nearing the end of your PhD. Maybe you’re considering a future in academia—but you're also exploring other possibilities.
A permanent academic position may not be available, or may no longer feel like the right path for you.
At the same time, finishing your dissertation demands all your focus.
You might be unsure about what you want, what you're capable of, or where you’ll find energy and fulfilment next.
You’re not alone.
We support PhD candidates in finding direction, identifying opportunities, and making career choices that fit their strengths and values—whether that’s inside or outside academia.
See if you are eligible for reimbursement for our workshops or coaching
View our range of workshops for PhD students
What we offer for PhDs
Throughout your PhD contract, you can take part in career coaching and workshops tailored to your phase and goals. In the early stages, we focus on self-awareness and personal development.
As you move forward, we help you explore your career options and take practical steps toward your next move within or beyond academia.
Our goal is to guide you in finding meaningful work that aligns with your strengths, values and ambitions.
Year 1 and 2:
Self knowledge
Year 3:
Self knowledge & future ideas
Year 4:
Future approaching & take action
After promotion:
New direction
See if you are eligible for reimbursement for our workshops or coaching
According to the 2023 National PhD Survey conducted by UNL and the Rathenau Institute, over 60% of PhD candidates want to stay in academia, yet nearly 70%... Read more in the blog.
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“This programme gave me more insight into my work situation, especially in terms of what gives me energy and what drains my energy.”
Need a coaching programme?
Career check-in
You think ahead. Would you like to have a few conversations about your next career step? Our Career check-in is a compact but powerful way to help you take stock of where you are in your work and where you want to go.
You complete a validated test that provides insight into your energy, motivation, skills and career aspirations. You then have three conversations with a career coach in which you explore what you need to develop and what you can do yourself to take control of your career.
Sign up for the Career check-in
See if you are eligible for reimbursement of the Career Check-in
Meet our coaches and trainers
Our career coaches and trainers are professionals. Our permanent team is permanently affiliated with ProActief. We also use external coaches, each of whom contributes their own specialization.
Do you have a question for one of our coaches/trainers? Ask your question here:
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DirectorRuerdje van Mierlo"Innovation and quality are my drivers. Regarding career development, I say: self-direction is indispensable"
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Career coach and trainerSieta Keizer‘I focus on ownership, self-knowledge, and proactivity—supported by creativity, humor, an open mind, and the ability to see through patterns and deeper layers.‘
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Career coach and trainerLeon Bos‘The best thing about career coaching is the moment when candidates discover what they already have to offer—and gain a clear view of their next step.‘
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Career coach and trainer (flex)Jacqueline Smits‘My approach is pragmatic, positive, stimulating, and results-oriented. I help you enjoy the process of finding a suitable new job or achieving a healthy work-life balance.‘
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Career coach and trainerChannah van Dootingh‘I combine genuine commitment with quick analysis and creative solutions. My approach is practical and action-oriented.’
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Career coach and trainerMarjolein Niehe‘I always see talent and potential in you. With practical tools and a touch of humour to keep things light, I help you take the next steps with confidence, even when it comes to management and leadership.‘
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Career coach and trainerSimone Schulp‘What's holding you back? I'll free you up and get you moving toward new work, toward yourself, and toward what you want to do in life and from your heart.’
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Career coach and trainerJosta Vencken‘I help you translate opportunities into concrete solutions, by listening sharply, asking focused questions and thinking along from an innovative perspective.’
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Business operations and financeBianca KlupperOur rock when it comes to planning, organization, and finances. Knows almost everything and comes up with practical and effective solutions.
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Office managerIlse VlassakExperienced office manager who likes to roll up her sleeves. Friendly, to-the-point, and results-oriented, she assists our candidates and clients.
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Trainer and career coach (flex)Rob Smits‘Not just talking, but above all practicing and pushing boundaries. For a mix of Amsterdam guts and Zaandam pragmatism, I'm the person to turn to.’
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Career coach and trainer (flex)Mervyn Nankoe‘I create a safe space where you learn to trust yourself and let your authentic colors shine.’
