In the autumn of 2024, I had the opportunity to participate in the DLN Industry Internship program, with AKVA Group in Klepp as my host company. At the time, I was in the final year of my PhD and had never worked outside of academia. The internship was the perfect opportunity to gain insight into working in a Norwegian company, helping me build confidence and expand my professional network beyond the university setting.
The transition from academia to industry can be intimidating, especially when most of my experience is confined to research and academic institutions. The DLN internship program provided me with a first-hand understanding of what it feels like to work in a corporate environment—something that no amount of theoretical knowledge could fully prepare me for. I was able to experience the structure, pace, and expectations of industry work, which was both eye-opening and enriching.
One of the most valuable aspects of the internship was the opportunity for self-reflection. It pushed me to critically evaluate what I enjoy and what I find less appealing in a professional setting. This kind of reflection is difficult when I have only experienced a single career path. By having worked in both academia and industry, I was able to develop a clearer understanding of my own professional aspirations. Before the internship, I was uncertain about my career trajectory, whether to stay in academia or leave for the industry. However, after completing my time at AKVA Group, my perspective shifted. I no longer view industry and academia as two entirely separate worlds but rather as different avenues where my skills and knowledge can be applied. In particular, I do not think so badly anymore about academia.
Ultimately, the internship was an invaluable experience that broadened my career perspective, strengthened my professional skills, and gave me the confidence to explore different career paths without hesitation. For anyone in academia who is unsure about their future career, I highly recommend taking advantage of similar internship opportunities—it might just change the way you see your future.
.jpg)
Centre for Digital Life Norway Industry Internship
PhD students and postdocs in Norwegian biotechnology have the opportunity to explore career options outside academia through Digital Life Norway’s Internship Programs.
New 2025 PhD call is out! Apply by 12 March 2025. ►
New 2025 Postdoc call is out! Apply by 28 February 2025. ►