Earlier relevant jobs

Environmental therapist, working with patients suffering from chronic psychiatric disorders and
individuals with developmental disorders like autism. 

What do you do at work and what is the best thing about your job?

I do neuroscientific research, investigating neurodevelopment.

The best thing about this job is that I can investigate questions that I have and that I constantly learn new techniques, methods and ideas concerning the brain. 

How did you get this job, and how do you use your skills and knowledge earned from your studies in your job?

I applied through direct contact with my current supervisor. I discovered the project at a site for
European PhDs.

The process took some time, I attended a few interviews before that, both virtually but also in person abroad. It was a great experience, and I am happy that I found my current project.

I use my theoretical knowledge abour behaviour, neuroscience and scientific methods every day as a PhD student. 

Did you work during your studies with something that is relevant for your job today?

Yes - at the end of my first semester I was offered a part-time position as a technical/lab-assistant in the lab where I was going to do my master thesis. In my third semester, when the thesis work started fulltime in the lab, this position naturally became redundant.

What is your best career advice for our current students?

Do not start a thesis or any work on a project you are not genuinely interested or motivated to learn more about - it can result in a terrible time. If you have problems with the thesis work, always talk with your supervisor or co-supervisor - preferably on a week-to-week basis.

If this is not possible, find a new supervisor before it is too late. They should do what they can to help you, just as much as you can do for them. As a MSc student, you are essentially doing work for free for the lab, and it is to be expected that you are treated as a valuable resource and member of the lab.