CeiED researcher Sónia Cardoso was one of six invited speakers at the symposium “Changing Patterns of Employability: The Implications for Doctoral Education”, organised by the International Centre for the Comparative Study of Doctoral Education (UK). The event took place online on 12 March 2025 and brought together experts to discuss transformations in the job market and their impact on doctoral education.

In her presentation, Sónia Cardoso explored how global changes in doctoral education influence individual agency and shape the doctoral experience across different countries. Based on qualitative interviews with 42 doctoral candidates from Portugal, Germany, and Australia, the study identified five key themes that highlight how candidates navigate structural challenges and career uncertainties.

The research also examined the implications for policy and institutions, particularly how universities can better support doctoral candidates through training, mentorship, and career development. Future directions were also discussed, emphasising the need for further research, policy adjustments, and institutional strategies to align doctoral training with evolving career opportunities.

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