Anyone with a PhD return to work after three years?

[sh77]

I applied for a research job at my old uni. I met every single essential requirement but didn't get an interview. I am gutted. I have been a SAHM for nearly three years and I know that is a negative point compared with being a recent graduate. Does anyone else have a similar experience?

I am also SAHM with PhD looking.... I really think these jobs are just so few and far between and competitive that they can take their pick. Have you published in the three years at home? If not (and even if so) I think you need to focus on that. I am humanities so maybe not possible to publish in sciences if you aren't conducting experiments. Could you do a review of existing data and find something new?

I am looking in related fields as I just don't have the focus/stamina for research at the moment. Might that be a possibility? Or get some tutoring whilst you wait for a research post?

Thank you - really good advice. I am an Economist/Statistician and have skills in an area, which are known to be in short supply. I haven't done any academic work in the past three years (although I have published previously) I naively thought matching the essential criteria would get me an interview. I have a very potted employment history, and so I guess that does not help. Have you started applying?

Yes I have started applying but have become more location sensitive the more I consider things so I haven't seen anything good for a few months. I'm not looking for straight academic posts now but did get two rejections from the two I did go for and fulfilled criteria. I think the weak point was 'active' research and publication. I'm working on publications and a blog to give more recent examples of engagement and add to the CV. I'm also looking to do some evening class/distance learning tutoring.

After publishing I think any conferences/study groups etc. you could attend would also help in making contacts and adding to your CV. I'm lucky to live in an Oxbridge town so going to some lectures/events is helping get my brain going again!

Also have you checked the thread on here for new academics? There might be more encouragement there!