What is a postdoc? A postdoctoral researcher (postdoc) is a scientist who receives advanced training in a certain domain by collaborating with a subject matter expert. It is a temporary position that bridges the gap between a Ph.D. and a career in academia. There is no other job like this. You get to choose what you want to accomplish and how you want to do it as a postdoc. You may work on new projects almost autonomously or design your research projects with the help of your mentors. 

My work as a postdoc in computer science focuses mainly on cyber security and digital privacy. Most of my days are spent researching topics like machine learning and artificial intelligence, as well as how they may be utilised to automate security processes and privacy management on the Internet of Things. I examine solutions that have been developed to assist secure systems and user data against evolving threats. Some of the domains I am researching are related to smart buildings and smart homes.

Life as a postdoc can be challenging, but it is also full of opportunities. Aside from your research tasks, which will mostly revolve around publishing, you will be required to take on responsibilities that go beyond those of your Ph.D. You could be handling administrative tasks, including funding applications and working long hours in the lab, as well as lecturing and supervising Bachelor’s or Master’s students. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to complete the majority of the aforementioned activities throughout my Ph.D.

What else can I say? On a typical day, there is rarely a moment when I am bored or feel as if I do not have enough to do. You will likely find a large amount of freedom in what you choose to focus on. You do not need to think about whether you are using your time well because there is so much interesting work to be pursued! Of course, I am biased here because my postdoc themes are partly related to what I studied during my doctoral studies and on which I have industrial expertise.

If you want to learn more about postdoc life in Sweden, have questions about my research interests, or simply want to get in touch, you are welcome to email or tweet me.