When we think of careers in academia, we often imagine long hours, high stress, and constant pressure to publish. But for Dr. Lennart Nacke, a professor of Human-Computer Interaction at the University of Waterloo, an academic career offered something different: freedom.
In this episode of The Bold PhD, Dr. Nacke shares his story of pivoting from film production dreams to a thriving academic career in game research. His journey is filled with actionable PhD career advice—especially for anyone navigating the uncertainty of post-PhD life.
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From Art School to Research Lab: A Nonlinear Path to Academia
Dr. Nacke didn’t follow a traditional academic route. He started in Germany in a program that combined art and computer science, with aspirations of working in film. But a growing interest in video games and technology shifted his focus. Eventually, his curiosity about how people engage with digital systems led him to pursue a PhD in Human-Computer Interaction.
The takeaway? Your path doesn’t have to be linear. In fact, nontraditional routes can offer the richest experiences. As Dr. Nacke puts it, “You can create your own unique value in academia by leaning into what makes your background different.”
PhD Career Advice: Think Like an Academic Entrepreneur
One of the most important lessons Dr. Nacke shares is this: running a research lab is like starting a business. From writing grants to managing students to promoting your work, professors are essentially entrepreneurs in the academic space.
This perspective can help PhDs feel more empowered, especially when navigating unclear career paths. “Nobody teaches you how to lead a team or run a lab,” Dr. Nacke notes. “But those are essential skills if you want to thrive in academia.”
If you’re pursuing a tenure-track role, consider this one of the most valuable pieces of PhD career advice: start developing your leadership and project management skills before you land the job.
Getting Hired in Academia Requires More Than a Degree
It’s no secret that the academic job market in 2025 is highly competitive. Dr. Nacke offers practical advice for PhDs aiming for tenure-track positions:
- Be intentional with your publications. Aim for high-impact journals and venues that matter in your field.
- Start building your network. Yes, even if you’re an introvert. Collaborations and referrals often lead to job opportunities.
- Know what kind of institution fits your values. Research-intensive universities have different expectations than teaching-focused colleges.
“Don’t just get the PhD—build a strategy around it,” he says. That’s the core of all good PhD career advice: approach your academic life with intention, not just reaction.
Avoiding Burnout and Leading with Purpose
Dr. Nacke is candid about his own struggles with overwork. Like many academics, he once wore burnout as a badge of honor. But now, he’s learned the value of boundaries, journaling, and stepping away from the screen.
He also shares simple leadership lessons that have shaped how he mentors students:
- Praise in public, critique in private.
- Set clear expectations from the beginning.
- Don’t let email dictate your day—your inbox is not your to-do list.
Build a Career That Works for You
If you’re feeling lost in your PhD program or unsure of your next steps, let this be your reminder: you have more agency than you think. Whether you’re applying for faculty jobs, considering a career pivot, or trying to recover from academic burnout, Dr. Nacke’s story shows that a fulfilling career is possible—with the right strategy.
You don’t have to follow someone else’s script. With thoughtful planning and clear values, you can create a career that aligns with who you are.
And that’s the best PhD career advice of all.