PhD Alumni in Tech Share Insights into Industry

A PhD in Psychology might not sound like the most straightforward path toward a career in tech, but for an increasing number of UW Psychology graduate alumni, tech is where they are applying the skills they’ve acquired in graduate school. 

UW Psychology PhD alumni Kit Moreland, Alec Scharff, Jeff Lin and Margarita Zeitlin spoke to students and faculty as part of a “PhD Alumni in Tech” panel on October 19th. Driven by questions submitted by students, the conversation covered topics ranging from why a Psychology PhD would pivot to tech, to what unique skill sets a Psychology PhD brings to industry. The panelists also shared their journeys pivoting from academia to industry, and what their roles (as UX researchers, game directors, and data scientists) entail. 

The panel was an excellent opportunity for current graduate students (and undergraduates) to learn more about paths outside of academia and to interact with industry professionals who were in their seats not too long ago! The Department is excited to build out our alumni programming and hope that this will be just the first of many panels providing students and alumni an opportunity to connect. 

We thank our wonderful alumni panelists for their time, thoughtful responses, and willingness to connect with students!