Professor of 10 Years, Now Director of Learning Sciences
- ashleymo5779
- 12 hours ago
- 2 min read
Name: Shiv Smith Karunakaran (he/him)
PhD: Curriculum & Instruction (Mathematics Education), Pennsylvania State University, 2014
What was your main area of research?
I studied the cognitive processes involved as individuals proved mathematical statements. I did this using both qualitative and quantitative methods with predominantly post-secondary individuals.
What is your current job?
I am the Director of Learning Sciences of HMH, and I work remotely.
I direct a team of learning scientists who design and validate ontologies of student learning.
What is your favorite thing about your job?
The best part is the great team I work with.
What is the most important skill you developed or experience you had during your PhD that now helps you in your current position?
Time management and prioritization of tasks
How did you find this position? What were the career steps you took to get to where you are now?
Referral
PhD graduate ➡️ Professor @ 2 R1 universities (10 years) ➡️ Senior Research Scientist ➡️ Director of Learning Sciences
If someone is interested in a similar role, what would you recommend they start doing now to prepare?
I would spend some time building your out-of-academia network. This can be done by identifying and reaching out to people who might be working in the positions and fields outside academia that you would like to work in.
Why did you decide to not pursue a career in academia?
I did pursue a career in academia. However, ultimately, I made the transition to outside academia due to geographic constraints and to be closer to family after the pandemic. It was an extremely nerve-wracking decision, but it is one that I do not regret.
What advice do you have for someone getting their PhD and looking to pursue a career outside of academia?
I would constantly be learning more about the types of positions that you are qualified for outside academia. These positions come with various titles and are with different companies and industries. There is definitely a learning curve when it comes to understanding what these positions do.