Communications Project Manager Still Feels Close to Science
- ashleymo5779
- Apr 14
- 2 min read
Name: Amalia Verzola (she/her)
PhD: Philosophy, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 2009
What was your main area of research?
I studied the links between aesthetics and politics. More specifically I analysed how media shape public opinion and how images can have an impact on the construction of opinions.
What is your current job?
I am the Communications Project Manager for the European Commission in Belgium.
I manage communication projects such as external newsletters, web projects, science outreach events and stakeholder engagement activities.
The best part is that the job is various and challenging at the same time.
How did you find this position? What were the career steps you took to get to where you are now?
I used to work as European Project Manager before, so working for the European institutions was quite a smooth transition in the end. Anyhow, in practical terms, I used to regularly follow the accounts/websites of EPSO, the European Personnel Selection Office.
PhD graduate ➡️ journalist ➡️ press officer ➡️ communication officer ➡️ European project manager ➡️ events manager ➡️ consultant in the field of communication and management of European projects ➡️ communications project manager
Why did you decide to not pursue a career in academia?
In my country of origin, Italy, it is quite difficult to pursue a career in academia. This is why my choice was somehow obliged. Nonetheless, I had always wanted to be a journalist, and this is why as soon as I graduated I decided to try that other professional path.
Of course I still miss academia but in the end, considering that I work in the field of science communication, I still feel close to it.
What advice do you have for someone getting their PhD and looking to pursue a career outside of academia?
I would suggest to:
Network: Since this was a very important element in my career outside of academia, as I learnt how to develop relevant connections which proved to be useful along the way.
Use LinkedIn and build your own brand: This will help you be recognisable and support you establish an image
Don't get discouraged during job interviews: Employers do not always see the added value of hiring a former researcher (instead, they can get quite anxious about that). This is why you have to explain that most of the skills you developed during your PhD can be transferable and can be an asset.