Making career choices can be exciting at the same time challenging. It is often a self-realisation process that promises fulfilment and professional growth. In this episode, we sit down with Daniel, who takes us through on his inspiring journey after earning a PhD that embodies his passion for academic research and teaching. Having spent several years as a professor at Anahuac University in Mexico, he transitioned to a postdoctoral research position in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Vienna, bringing a unique perspective on navigating academic careers across borders. He shares offers practical advice for early-career researchers and PhD graduates considering their next steps, while weaving in personal stories that highlight resilience, growth, and the importance of keeping an open mind. Whether you’re planning your own post-PhD career or simply curious about the real-world experiences of academics, this conversation is full of insights you won’t want to miss.

This episode was hosted and produced by Hari Baskar Balasubramanian (PhD candidate) and Ranjith Kumar Ravi Kumar (postdoctoral fellow), with Daniel Cuervo-Zanatta (postdoctoral fellow) as the guest. All are in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Anar Batzorig, a PhD candidate in the Department of Nutritional Sciences, recorded and edited it.