How my work and Ph.D. complement each other
The experience and knowledge gained while studying at the Energy Policy Studies master's program helped me get selected for an energy transition and sustainability analyst position at McKinsey, where I currently work.
Combining Ph.D. studies and a full-time job is a challenging task. However, the two offer a unique opportunity for me to keep learning the subject matter and immediately apply my learnings in practice, making an impactful contribution to the ongoing energy transition.
More specifically, at McKinsey, I got involved in research around the net-zero transition of the Czech Republic and Slovakia. It inspires me and gives me the impetus to dive deeper into all kinds of energy data available. To do so, I want to master new tools and analytical methods. McKinsey offers a great number of different learning tracks boosting various programs' user skills. Another platform is the university. There are multiple methodological courses options that I am free to take. Besides courses held at the faculties, I can participate in summer schools and conferences, which are useful in terms of learning and as channels for networking and finding like-minded people.
To deliver impactful contributions to my fullest, I also want to elevate my communication and presentation skills. Here again, both platforms come in handy. In McKinsey, I hope to learn the art of synthesis and impactful writing, in which my analytical contributions would stand out. At the university, I would love to master mentoring skills that might turn out very useful in business background. I also see teaching as an opportunity to share thoughts on a topic that inspires me with younger colleagues.
Last but not least, by continuing my studies, I expect myself to keep track of energy research development, constantly learning something new and very specific at work, but then coming back to a broader perspective at the university. Seeing all the dimensions, getting a different perspective is extremely important to deliver meaningful change.