How does a Materials Science and Engineering PhD get into business world?
Asked by burnfat
Hi, I am a Materials Science and Engineering PhD student in a prestigious university in US. But I really want to get into business world after Ph.D. I am kinda confused what to do? Can anyone give some suggestions, like what is the baby step to really get started this dream? What is the advantage of materials science and engineering major student to do that? What is the disadvantages?For an engineering background student, what is especially important and challenging for him to interview with a business examiner?Thanks, guys.

Best Answer:
There are a lot of industries that can use smart people, but most of them would not let you use your PhD. An MBA might help, but you might want to talk to some adventure capitalists active in your field. (Check who has invested in some of the companies active in your industry). They would be looking for the combination of industry knowledge and business sense.
i'm biased, I'm working for an investment company/venture capitalist.
Answered by europeaninla

In some countries like Germany and Japan, many businesses are run by engineers. The way into business is to stay in Engineer but move into the business area. Engineering companies need sales people, managers and so on. Especially if you go and do an MBA, your salary can be very high and you will be in high demand in engineering companies. Your ability to get into the right job will depend on your previous work experience and your desire. Many companies will give you a go, let you prove yourself. So you can just approach companies directly and tell them that you want this sort of work. Don't try it through recruit agencies, as they will not be interested in you at all. They only want people that fit the job advert. The long-term approach is to work in Engineering and then talk over a period of years, get more into the business side of the work. Probably the first business area would be project management or customer service roles. Doing courses in project management, business planning and supervision can help you without going to the trouble and expense of an MBA.
Answered by flingebunt

Ph.D engineering? You definitely want to look into Quantitative finance. Not regular finance, mind you, but the hard number field of finance. You are immune from competition against most MBAs since they are incapable of doing the higher level mathematics required in this area. I suggest you pick up some textbooks in this area and start reading up, see if that sparks your interest. A very high paying, rewarding, career choice.
Answered by OrangeKitten

it gets you nothing other than going back and being a teacher yourself.
Answered by Yes I am here!!

try to get into lloyds or any other quality certification company, they have a need for people who can check the quality of materials and products and issue certification CE, ISO etc. as per testing. I could be a job suitable for your profile
Answered by xanadu