The PhD Marathon: Reflections on Skill Development By Professor Pantami
Last week, one of our doctoral students at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) successfully defended her thesis and earned her PhD, graduating with minor amendments. Throughout the duration of my supervision, she consistently demonstrated a commitment to improvement. Her research focused on “Device-Level Authentication Protocol for Multi-Factor Verification Systems.”
During the defense, the external examiner conducted a thorough review of the thesis, providing valuable insights that enriched the discussion.
I would like to share some key thoughts for potential or current PhD students regarding essential skill development before, during, and after earning a doctoral degree. Here are eleven skill tips to consider:
1. Critical Thinking and Analysis: Cultivate the ability to critically evaluate research areas, identify gaps, and design impactful studies. Remember, the PhD journey is a marathon—not a sprint. It’s normal to question your decision to pursue a PhD; however, staying committed is crucial. Strong critical thinking skills will serve you well across academia, industry, and government.
2. Literature Review: Master the art of conducting comprehensive literature reviews. Synthesize findings and identify areas for further research, particularly those relevant in today’s context of Industry 4.0 and beyond.
3. Methodology and Experimental Design: Acquire expertise in designing and executing experiments, surveys, or other research methods pertinent to your field. Methodology serves as the intellectual bridge between problems and potential solutions.
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4. Academic Writing and Publishing: Hone your ability to craft clear, concise, and well-structured research papers while navigating the publishing process. Additionally, participate in conferences and workshops to enhance your skills.
5. Stay Updated with Industry Trends: Engage with industry professionals, read relevant publications, and participate in forums to stay informed about the latest developments in your research area.
6. Programming Languages: Familiarize yourself with programming languages that are relevant to your field, such as Python, Java, or MATLAB.
7. Effective Communication and Networking: Maintain regular communication with your supervisor(s) to discuss progress and address concerns. Strengthen your interaction skills, both academically and socially, and surround yourself with mentors who can provide valuable guidance and support.
8. Data Visualization and Communication: Acquire proficiency in data visualization tools like Tableau, Power BI, or D3. If applicable to your research, master statistical software packages such as SPSS, SAS, or Stata.
9. Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence: Understand key concepts in machine learning and AI and learn how to apply them to your research. These skills are invaluable in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, but be cautious not to rely solely on them.
10. Time Management and Organization: Develop the ability to prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively. Utilize a scale of preferences when juggling multiple activities, as managing your time well is critical to your success.
11. Beyond the Degree: Remember, a PhD represents more than just a degree; it demonstrates your capacity for critical thinking, problem-solving, and meaningful contributions to your field and society. Aim for personal growth throughout the process, enhancing your ability to think creatively and navigate life’s challenges.
The journey may prove daunting at times, but it can also be immensely rewarding.
Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami)
Professor of Cybersecurity
Federal University of Technology, Owerri
