🎙 Is it possible to balance industry, academia, and a growing family while pursuing a PhD?

In this episode, Dr. Rafik Naccache, researcher and professor at Concordia University, shares his journey of navigating the worlds of science, industry, and academia. His story highlights the challenges and rewards of balancing career, research, and personal life while pursuing advanced studies.

Rafik discusses the risks of PhD research, transitioning from industry to academia, and his long-term vision for the future. Whether you're a student, aspiring researcher, or professional seeking motivation, this episode is filled with insights and inspiration on resilience, career growth, and higher education.

🔑 Topics Covered:

00:00 Introduction to Rafik’s Journey in Industry & Academia

02:46 Choosing Industry for the First 10 Years

05:10 Balancing Work, Study & Family Life

10:40 Pursuing a Master’s While Working Full-Time

12:20 Transitioning from Industry to a Full-Time PhD

16:45 Attraction to a Career in Research

20:41 Risks & Uncertainty of PhD Research

22:46 Research as a Jigsaw Puzzle

26:20 Handling Failure in the Research World

29:37 Postdoc Path: Academia vs. Industry

35:00 Achieving His Dream Career

36:49 Career Navigation Tips for Aspiring Researchers

39:59 Legacy Goals for the Next 20 Years

42:21 How to Connect with Dr. Rafik Naccache

43:15 Gratitude & Reflections

44:21 Closing & Call to Action

🎯 Connect with Dr. Rafik Naccache:

Concordia University Profile: https://www.concordia.ca/faculty/rafik-naccache.html

Email: [email protected]

Discover more episodes of *Making Your Mark Podcast* with Mark Bundang — real career stories, growth strategies, and lessons from professionals across industries.

📌 Discovery Optimization:

PhD careers, balancing academia and industry, scientific research, higher education challenges, STEM career growth, resilience in research, work-life balance in academia, Concordia University professor, postgraduate studies, making your mark podcast