Get the Most Out of Your Doctorate: Tips for Excelling Without Dying in the Attempt

Inspired by Nobel laureate Santiago Ramón y Cajal [1], Javier García Martínez, Professor at the University of Alicante, Spain, and Past-President of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC), shares tips for young scientists, drawing on insights from both emerging and established chemists.

In this series, Javier García Martínez distills Cajal’s key insights into actionable advice that any young scientist can apply. Drawing on his experience as a Ph.D. advisor, prolific author, and leading researcher in molecular nanotechnology, Javier adds context to Cajal’s timeless lessons. Every Tuesday and Friday, a new entry will be published, featuring practical advice and a quote from D. Santiago Ramón y Cajal’s book on the day’s topic. This series will also include insights from Vera Koester of ChemistryViews to provide additional perspective.

We invite you to read, reflect, and share your own thoughts in the comments as we explore practical strategies for making the most of your Ph.D. journey.

💡Tip 9: Find Mentors and Role Models

Having mentors and role models can provide invaluable guidance, accelerate your learning, and shape your scientific career. While research can sometimes feel isolating, learning from those who have walked the path before you can help you navigate challenges more effectively.

Here’s how to find and learn from mentors and role models:

Read biographies of influential scientists:
o Learning about their struggles and successes provides inspiration and perspective.
o Many of the greatest scientists faced rejection, failure, and skepticism before making breakthroughs. Their stories remind us that persistence is key.
Study great contributors in your field:
o Analyze how they approached problems, built collaborations, and advanced their research.
o Understanding their scientific journey can provide insights into strategies that may work for you.
Recognize that role models are not perfect:
o No scientist is without flaws—what matters is the principles and dedication they embody.
o Instead of idolizing individuals, focus on the aspects of their work and character that you admire.
Identify key values that resonate with you:
o Look for role models who align with your scientific and ethical principles.
o Whether it’s their curiosity, resilience, leadership, or commitment to mentorship, choose figures who inspire you to grow.
Use role models as decision-making guides:
o When facing a difficult situation, ask yourself: “What would my role model do?”
o This perspective can help you make thoughtful and principled decisions in your research and career.

Finding and Engaging with Mentors

Seek guidance from experienced researchers:
o A mentor doesn’t have to be a world-famous scientist—senior colleagues, professors, or even peers with different expertise can provide valuable insights.
o Don’t hesitate to reach out for advice; many scientists are willing to share their experiences.
Build meaningful mentor-mentee relationships:
o Mentorship is not just about receiving advice—it’s about building trust and learning from each other.
o Engage in thoughtful discussions, seek feedback, and be open to constructive criticism.
Diversify your mentors:
o Different people can provide guidance in different areas—technical skills, career advice, or work-life balance.
o Having multiple mentors ensures a well-rounded perspective.

“Great men are at times geniuses, occasionally children, and always incomplete”
―Santiago Ramón y Cajal, Advice for a Young Investigator

Finding mentors and studying role models helps you refine your own path, avoid common pitfalls, and stay motivated throughout your Ph.D. and beyond. The right guidance can make a lasting difference in your scientific career.

And to wrap up this series of tips on how to make the most out of your Ph.D., let me leave you with one last quote:

“Hypotheses pass, but facts remain. Theories desert us, facts defend us”
―Santiago Ramón y Cajal, Advice for a Young Investigator

I think this is also an important tip, or rather, a whole set of tips. Thank you so much, Javier, for being a role model to many, for gathering these tips, and for inspiring us all!
―Vera Koester

➜ Tip 8

References

[1] Santiago Ramón y Cajal, Reglas y Consejos sobre Investigación Cientifica: Los tónicos de la voluntad, Editorial Médica Panamericana, Madrid, Spain, 2011. ISBN-13: 978-8467037753

[2] Javier García-Martínez, How To Make the Most of your PhD?, Bunsen-Magazin 01/2025, 15

[3] Javier García-Martínez, Go Beyond the Lab, Bunsen-Magazin 01/2025, 17.

[4] Javier García-Martínez, Standing on the Shoulders of Giants – Your Mentors and Role Models Will Shape Your Career, Chem. Eur. J. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1002/chem.202100071