The PhD's Guide to Business Success (No MBA Required)

For: Industry-Based Scientists and R&D Leaders

Technical expertise alone rarely translates to organizational influence. Despite superior knowledge and analytical skills, many scientists find their recommendations sidelined in favor of less rigorous but more "business-friendly" approaches. This pattern leads to frustration, missed opportunities for advancement, and high-potential projects abandoned due to communication barriers.

The encouraging reality is that these challenges reflect skill gaps, not capability gaps—and new skills can be learned! This intensive two-day program teaches you how to:

Translate technical concepts into business value propositions that resonate with executives and stakeholders

Navigate corporate decision-making processes with an insider's understanding of influence points

Develop compelling business cases that secure funding and resources for technically sound initiatives

Identify and overcome common objections to scientific recommendations before they arise

Lead cross-functional teams that bridge technical and business priorities effectively

Build your professional reputation as a problem-solver and strategic asset, not just a technical resource

Maintain scientific integrity while adapting communication to different business audiences

Participants can expect considerable improvements in project approval rates, accelerated advancement into leadership positions, and the ability to influence organizational direction while maintaining their scientific credibility. Many find they can finally implement the improvements they've long recognized as necessary but couldn't previously gain traction for in business environments.

This workshop includes

1- to 2-day specialized training  

Limited to 20 in-person participants

100+ page take-home workbook for continued success

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What’s in it for you?

For Scientists in Industry: Gain the business fluency needed to influence organizational decisions, advance into leadership roles, and implement scientifically sound solutions effectively.

For Companies & R&D Organizations: Develop your technical talent into strategic business assets who can bridge science and commerce, improving project success rates and innovation outcomes.

Alumni Spotlight

What our students say

Trusted by both scientists and university leadership for delivering career-transforming outcomes.

What Our Students Say Testimonial - Classroom X Webflow Template

‘David delivered an engaging and thought-provoking keynote that brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our event, It was a delight to see the doctoral students in attendance with big smiles on their faces, clearly indicating their satisfaction. There are many people who give career development guidance, but David has the first-hand experience required to give a genuine view of what a private sector career is really like!'

Dr. Robert Radu, Scientist Career Development Lead, University of Bonn
What Our Students Say Testimonial - Classroom X Webflow Template

‘Attending the 'How to Be More Employable in the Private Sector' workshop was an exceptional opportunity that provided me with a new perspective on my career and increased my confidence. I'm grateful for Dr. David Giltner's invaluable insights, feedback, and captivating stories that helped me gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in the private sector.'

asiel Strubbe, PhD Candidate in Cardiac Physiology and Mitochondrial Energetics at Michigan State University
25+
years in the industry

Bridging scientific excellence and business impact with proven leadership experience.

200+
workshops delivered

Transformative training programs consistently delivered at premier institutions across continents.

2,500+
scientists trained

Empowering researchers to thrive in industry with practical career frameworks.

60+
universities served

Trusted globally to bridge the academia-industry gap for measurable success.

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Transform your scientists into industry leaders

Learn how our workshops help PhDs succeed in industry, PIs grow their labs and get more funding, and universities secure long-lasting industry partnerships.

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