PhD competencies

Capitalise on your PhD competencies!

The “competency” is a complex know-how that draws on and combines resources (knowledge, expertise and interpersonal skills) from various disciplinary fields.
As part of a PhD program that trains through research, a doctoral student is able to solve complex problems, propose innovative solutions, establish rigorous protocols, conduct literature reviews, adapt their discourse to a specific audience, and possesses many other soft skills.

Competency Guide 2025

Université Grenoble Alpes has developed a “Skills Guide” at doctoral level structured around the six blocks defined by the French National Register of Professional Qualifications (RNCP).

The approach

The self-assessment approach presented here is designed to help you think about the range of competencies you have gained during your PhD. It will help you demonstrate and highlight these competencies as you pursue your career goals. It can also help you identify how these competencies allow you to expand your career opportunities after your PhD.

The steps

The first step, right from the start of your thesis, is to take a look at the competency framework presented in this guide and start thinking about the competencies you have already acquired. You will have more experience to draw on for your self-assessment over the course of the first year of your thesis. We urge you to assess your competencies at least once a year, for example, ahead of the Individual Monitoring Committee (CSI), and to take advantage of cross-disciplinary training and career programs offered by the Doctoral College to advance in your thinking.

The method

The goal is not to “tick” all the boxes by the end of your PhD. It is rather to reach an overall balance, to acquire a minimum level of competence in each area, which you may continue to develop throughout your career. the idea is to take the time to develop a way of talking about yourself professionally, and in a persuasive way, with all professional contacts, not just recruiters. This will be useful throughout your career.
> The skills portfolio is proposed as a tool to facilitate this process.

> To learn more about the approach and method, consult the guide below in English and the portfolio in English

Design and development
Design and development of a research, R&D and innovation strategy
 
Implementation
Implementation of a research, R&D and innovation strategy
 
Commercialisation and transfer
Commercialisation and transfer of the results of a research, R&D and innovation strategy
 
Monitoring scientific and technological developments
High-level monitoring of international scientific and technological developments
 
Teaching and dissemination
Contribution to the dissemination of scientific and technical culture, mediation and training
 
Managing teams
Management of teams dedicated to research, R&D and innovation activities
 

Consult the complete doctoral competency guide

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