What We Learned from Running Our First PhD Accelerator

In January 2025, Kohlrabi took a big leap—launching the first PhD Accelerator Programme at Kohlrabi. The idea was simple: give PhD students the skills, confidence, and experience to explore careers beyond academia. But what unfolded over those 12 weeks was so much more.

We saw participants transform how they think, communicate, and work. They moved from writing academic outputs, such as journal articles, to crafting impact reports. From independent research to client-facing collaboration. From academic open-endedness to consultancy-style delivery.

And it wasn’t always smooth sailing—nor was it meant to be.

The Challenge of Time

Time budgeting became one of the most common (and relatable!) struggles. In academia, depth and exploration are the norm. In consulting, it’s about focus, prioritisation, and high-value outputs—fast.

Some teams set great boundaries early; others had to recalibrate mid-project. Either way, those “course corrections” became rich learning moments.

The Emotional Journey

The emotional side mattered too. Through peer mentoring and check-ins, we made space for the mental shift that comes with stepping out of academia. Imposter syndrome, uncertainty, redefining success—all of it came up, and all of it was part of the journey.

Real Clients, Real Stakes

These weren’t mock exercises. Our participants worked with actual clients, real deadlines, and live deliverables. And they rose to the challenge.

“Their work will definitely help us refine and direct our organisational strategy. Really well done and pleased with the output!,” one client told us.

That feedback? It meant the world—to the students, and to us.

Why This Matters

At Kohlrabi, we believe researchers have so much to offer the world beyond academia. But navigating that leap takes more than a list of transferable skills. It takes exposure, support, real-world context, and reflection.

The PhD Accelerator combined all of that. And in doing so, it sparked confidence, direction, and career clarity.

We’re proud of what this first cohort achieved—and we’re even more excited to welcome the next in September.