Outgrown academia? Find a career that grows with you.

The After Academia Incubator is the program for PhDs who want more than titles and tenure.

Free yourself from academia so you can thrive, personally and professionally.

The ivory tower is crumbling, and you’re trapped inside.

You’ve given everything to academia - your relationships, your health, your money, and your most precious resource: your time.

In return, you were promised unparalleled freedom and career stability. 

The reality is much different.

Today, you’re feeling insecure, unappreciated, and exhausted, emotionally and physically.

Higher education is changing, and you know this career is unsustainable. There’s just one problem: 

Leaving academia is really hard.

Why does “finding a job” feel impossible?

You were taught that “smart” people can “figure it out” on their own. But when it comes to leaving academia, this DIY approach has you feeling…

…confused by endless (and outdated) “free” Internet advice, with no idea what actually works in 2025.

…frustrated after submitting dozens of resumes, only to face rejection after rejection (do recruiters even care about your PhD?)

…overwhelmed by imposter syndrome, convinced that you’re overqualified, underqualified, or (even worse) a failure.

…isolated and ashamed to admit that you’re struggling, fearing no one else understands what you’re going through.

Here’s what no one tells you:

Leaving academia isn’t an ordinary job search - it’s a complete identity overhaul. 

You can’t do this alone. And now, you don’t have to.

The After Academia Incubator is the program for PhDs who are ready to thrive.

No more frustrating trial-and-error, aimless Internet searches, and “free” advice that gets you nowhere.

The Incubator gives you a clear, step-by-step path to the career (and life) you deserve:

A structured (yet flexible) program, tailored to you

Access 2.5 hours of self-paced video lessons and 12 exercises designed to transform your career (without wasting your time).

A community that “gets it”, even if you’re an introvert

Join 130+ PhD students, postdocs, professors, and former academics from every field and around the world. You’re not alone anymore.

A mentor for when you (inevitably) get stuck

Never question whether you’re “doing this right” - get personalized support and feedback on everything, from resumes to overcoming imposter syndrome.

Goodbye Burnout. Hello Balance.

Join the only program designed to help you GROW, personally and professionally.

PART 1

Ground yourself.

The most important step that every PhD skips.

Discover what jobs you’re actually qualified to do with your PhD and why you need to say “no” to most of them.

PART 2

Reorient your career.

Welcome to the other side! The grass is actually greener here (who knew?)

Learn how (and why) hiring happens in industry. Then, translate your academic achievements into language that recruiters actually understand.

PART 3

Optimize your applications.

How do you stand out in the competitive 2025 job market?

You’ll create an unforgettable resume and LinkedIn profile. Plus, learn strategies that PhDs use to land jobs in weeks, not years.

PART 4

Win back your life.

Your career is the ultimate research project.

Learn how to thrive in your first job and grow your career for years to come. No more endless cycles of burnout and overwork!

Created for your analytical brain, by an analytical brain

I left academia because I wanted more - more impact, more support, and more time for what really matters.

Since then, I’ve landed 4 different industry roles, including at Meta (twice).

And I did it without applying to 100s of jobs online or removing “PhD” from my resume. How?

Hours of research and many (many) mistakes.

I created the Incubator to give you everything I needed (but didn’t have) in my first job search. You don’t have to struggle alone like I did. 

It’s time to leave the ivory tower and find a career that aligns with your life.

50 job placements and counting, including at:

“Show me the data”

You’re skeptical - it’s how you were trained.

If you’re investing in a program, you need proof, not promises:

I was feeling pretty stuck in my post-academia job search until I met Ashley. She is a master of gentle but persistent encouragement. Her advice about re-writing my profile, resume, and introduction letters was invaluable. Her encouragement to follow the plan and build my network led directly to being hired at a great job in my field. She is just a great resource.

Tim Mahoney, PhD

Dean of Students and Academics, Winston Preparatory School

Through Ashley's "After Academia" course, I gained crucial skills in identifying career paths, crafting industry-relevant applications, networking, and interview preparation. Within a few months, I transitioned from a tenured faculty job to a Learning and Development leadership role. If you're ready to do the work to transition into a meaningful career, you don't have to do it alone. 

Nathalie Franco, PhD

Learning and Development Lead, onehome

I signed up to work with Ashley after ~4 months of job searching with very minimal luck post dissertation defense. I applied to 6 jobs while working with Ashley, got through multiple rounds of interviews, and got an amazing offer at my top choice. Ashley's resources, knowledge, and feedback are invaluable. It was also incredibly encouraging to meet a community of folks going through the same thing. Thanks Ashley!

Andrea Yuly-Youngblood, PhD

Senior Researcher, Discovery Education

I had been on my job search for ~6 months before joining Ashley’s program, and after I joined I saw a clear difference in the number of interviews I was landing and in moving forward in. I'm happy to say that I eventually landed my dream job, which I just started last month! Thank you Ashley - I can’t express how much a difference you made in my search, and how grateful I am. If I were to do anything differently, it would have been to start this program (or at least to see a coach) sooner!

Laura Hazlett, PhD

Senior Behavioral Scientist, Ochsner Health

Thanks to the incredibly helpful information Ashley provided in her After Academia program I was able to revamp my resume and networking strategy and was able to get a job offer I ultimately accepted within two weeks of starting her program!

Jen Feltner, PhD

Biologist, US Fish and Wildlife Service

Ashley's program is invaluable for anyone starting an industry job search. It provides comprehensive resources, a supportive community, live help through webinars and office hours, and realistic insights into the job market. The materials and resources Ashley developed were crucial to my successful industry job search.

Sam Freis, PhD

Experience Strategy Analyst, Gogo Business Aviation

Ashley Ruba's After Academia mentorship program has been an instrumental resource in my career journey. After joining this program, I have been able to secure a contract UXR with Microsoft and get invited to a lot of interviews for permanent positions. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking personalized, effective, and insightful guidance as they navigate their professional path.

Sara Izadi-Najafabadi, PhD

UX Researcher, Microsoft

Before joining, my post graduation job search was not going well. I was feeling demoralized. I always struggled with communicating the value of the skills I gained while completing a PhD program to potential employers outside of academia. Ashley had plenty of great advice for steps that I could take to make myself look more attractive to employers. I highly recommend working with Ashley if you are feeling stuck in your transition out of academia.

Christian Morales, PhD

Public Health Researcher, AIR

My post-academia journey has been anything but smooth, and Ashley’s coaching has been a game-changer in me finding myself through the tumultuous waters of post academic life. Ashley is more than a coach in this space — they are a brilliant, resilient force bringing something truly magical to the world. Highly recommend.

Lindsey Upton, PhD

Social Scientist, Magallan Consultancy

Coming out of my PhD, I felt adrift. Ashley has taught me so much about what non-academic hiring managers are looking for, and now I have a non-academic network, I'm more confident about branching out and growing roots outside of academia, and my job applications have been more successful than they every have been!

Joel Schneider, PhD

Senior Research Associate, University of Minnesota

As I was finishing my PhD, I felt lost. There is so much advice out there about how to look for non-academic jobs, and it was overwhelming. In the After Academia program, Ashley synthesized and presented practical career advice. This program has helped me reflect on what I want from my career, which has made me more confident in my job search.

Steph Scodras, PT, PhD

Medical Writer, Freelance

I had little idea of how to navigate the transition out of academia and even less of an idea of how to stand out in the current job market. During our 1:1, she reviewed my LinkedIn profile with me and talked me through my goals for job hunting in a way that helped me articulate what I needed from my position to feel fulfilled. I’m happy to say her help contributed to my getting my dream role with a company I am proud to work for.  I can’t recommend Ashley enough.

Morgan Saxon LaFavers, PhD

Human Factors Engineer, Monterey Technologies, Inc.

Ashley is THE BEST. She helped me so much and gave me all the info I needed that I saved months in my career search. I totally recommend her to any academic transitioning to industry.

Kammay (Kam) Kamyar, PhD

Data Scientist, Bayer

Ashley’s program is a beacon of light in the often foggy landscape of job hunting. It’s not just a course, but a journey of self-reflection and growth, filled with genuine insights and practical advice that are incredibly valuable. Being part of Ashley's network has been an enriching experience, and the guidance provided has been instrumental in navigating my career path. 

Halima Aliouche, PhD

Learning Experience Facilitator, Axcis Education Recruitment

Taking the program by Ashley has been one of the best decisions I have made lately! As a PhD candidate, I often felt uninformed about alternative paths outside of academia. Thanks to Ashley's program, I learnt so much about the non-academic job market surrounded by a supportive, amazing community of fellow PhDs. The world beyond academia looks so much brighter now 🤩

Valentina Cantori, PhD

Researcher, University of Southern California

Getting insight from someone who’s been through the process is a game-changer. Ashley knows exactly what companies are looking for and how PhDs can advocate for their skillsets. If you're considering a move to industry, I can’t recommend Ashley’s After Academia program enough. Transitioning from academia to industry requires a significant shift in mindset, which is challenging to achieve on your own.

Dori Kenessey, PhD

Data Analyst, University of Nevada, Reno

Ashley’s After Academia program was exactly what I needed as I approached the end of my PhD. Prior to working with Ashley, I was unsure about transitioning from academia and exploring alternative career options. Ashley offered realistic advice and stressed the importance of targeting a specific career path and being intentional in our job search. 

Olasubomi “David” Ayeni, PhD

Researcher, Georgia State University

Ashley's program was helpful in providing actionable ways to translate and discuss my academic experiences. Her individualized, prompt, and validating feedback was very valuable! Ashley's program was helpful in providing actionable ways to translate and discuss my academic experiences. Her individualized, prompt, and validating feedback was very valuable!

Shruthi Venkatesh, PhD

Research Specialist Lead, MICHR

My reason for joining the program was to understand the UXR culture in companies, interview prep and getting resume reviews. This channel familiarized me with the journey of so many other PhDs in different industries which was inspiring. If you're a PhD and confused about which career to choose that aligns well with your existing expertise, go ahead and join the program. Ashley is awesome!

Prerna Choubey, PhD

UX Researcher, Pramanity Research Group

I joined the After Academia program at a time when I was uncertain about how to navigate my recent transition into a new industry. The program provided invaluable networking tips that helped me build connections and navigate the industry as an early career professional. Ashley provided detailed and thoughtful feedback throughout the program that was incredibly helpful. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to make a similar transition.

Ashley Mayo, PhD

Ergonomic and Safety Specialist, Fit For Work

This program was particularly helpful for learning how to effectively present my skills and expertise in a way that resonated with potential industry employers. The program made the entire job search and application process more transparent, and was well-personalized towards academics. I highly recommend Ashley and the After Academia program if you are considering transitioning to industry!

Suyog Chandramouli, PhD

Researcher, Princeton University

Ashley's After Academia program has been incredibly helpful for me. The program has saved me a lot of time and eased the sense of feeling lost in the career exploration maze. The material is clear and high-quality, and Ashley's teaching skills are exceptional. Connecting with fellow participants in a supportive environment is invaluable during this challenging career transition.

Angelique Regnier-Golanov, PhD

Licensing Assistant, Houston Methodist

Ashley's program is amazing. The After Academia program is self-paced and allowed me to do things when I have time. I worked through the original slides, and they were great, but what is even better is that Ashley keeps improving and updating the course on a regular basis. I can highly recommend this to any academic looking to step out of our bubble. You will not regret it. 

Klaus Libertus, PhD

Assistant Professor, University of Pittsburgh

Ashley's course on transitioning out of academia was super helpful to me. As a neurodiverse applicant from a purely academic background, it was very helpful to learn how to advocate for myself through networking.

Ishika Ray, PhD

Researcher, University of Washington

Ashley’s programme was very useful and helped make my transition from academia to industry much smoother. She was very responsive and I felt very supported throughout. Would definitely recommend.

Amarah Anthony, PhD

Senior Public Health Officer, Birmingham City Council

I wasn't sure about my application materials. Ashley convincingly showcases how to improve them. I really like that she doesn't just tell how one should do it, but also tell why one should do it. With that, I could make my own decision how to design my materials and make my own judgement on whether it is good or not. I also like the community that she builds up. It makes me feel that I am not alone. 

Minxia (Laura) Luo, PhD

Researcher, University of Zurich

The process of job hunting has been very lonely for me. When I heard about Ashley's After Academia program, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to feel supported. And it has been just that! She gives precise feedback and, most importantly, is always on the lookout for resources and connections to help me navigate the career path I want to take. I no longer feel alone in this journey, and it's reassuring to know that someone has my back. 

Sakshi Sharda, PhD

Scientific Consultant, Earth Action

Ashley’s coaching program and personalized 1:1 support provided me with direction in my job search. After completing her coaching program, I have gained the skills and mindset to succeed in landing my next full-time position. I highly recommend Ashley’s coaching program for PhDs seeking to transition to industry. I would still be lost and trying to figure out everything on my own if I had not decided to join her coaching program. 

Laura Morgan, PhD

Behavioral Science Consultant, BluFire AI

Before enrolling in Ashley's program, I found myself at a crossroads, feeling lost and uncertain about how to navigate a career outside the traditional academic sphere. Ashley's program provided the guidance I desperately needed. Her willingness to review my resume, provide constructive feedback, and be available for any questions created a supportive environment that instilled confidence in my decisions. I wholeheartedly recommend her program to any Ph.D. professional seeking a seamless and successful transition into non-academic careers.

Christi Nelson, PhD

Research Scientist, University of Washington

The job search proved to be a stressful and isolating experience. However, working with Ashley and her community at After Academia provided a supportive network that made me realize I was not alone in this journey. Ashley's assistance was invaluable as she kindly guided me in crafting an effective CV through the insightful content she shares weekly. I highly recommend After Academia to fellow PhDs seeking a seamless transition into the industry. 

Amel Saim-Mamoun, PhD

Senior Associate, Eli Lilly and Company

I was initially overwhelmed and pessimistic about my job prospects outside academia. However, since starting the After Academia program, Ashley has been instrumental in helping me understand the nature of recruitment outside of academia. Her course has taught me how to reframe my academic skills and expertise in a way that resonates with non-academic positions. I feel more confident in my approach to job hunting, building my brand, and successfully transitioning to a new career.

Samantha White, PhD

Adjunct Fellow, University of Canterbury

Working with Ashley in the After Academia program is fantastic. She has immense attention to detail and care about the quality of her work and the people involved in the program. The individual feedbacks to CV and LinkedIn were way beyond what I expected. In addition, the webinars are well thought and they really changed the way I structure my CVs and LinkedIn profiles. 10/10 recommend!

Arthur Dantas, PhD

Clinical Research Associate, University of Ottawa

Ashley and I talked about my career goals, looked at my resume and my LinkedIn profile together, and talked about strategies for networking and informational interviews. She gave me tons of resources and even connected me with a former colleague of hers, with whom I had an awesome information interview the very next week. I highly recommend working with Ashley if you're looking for career guidance!

Annie Zonneveld, PhD

Senior Research Associate, University of Cambridge

Leave the Tower. Live Empowered.

Free yourself from academia so you can thrive, personally and professionally.

The December 2024 cohort opens on Monday, December 2.

GROW
Everything you need to build a fulfilling future.
$175
per month for 6 months

$300 launch discount applied

(ends September 4)

Join the Waitlist

Enter your email address to be notified when spots open.

2.5 hours of video lessons

A step-by-step guide to confidently navigate your next chapter.

12 guided exercises

Discover your ideal career, write a standout resume, excel at interviews, and more. 

Community of 130+ PhDs

Get support, feedback, and advice throughout your journey.

50+ Q&A insights

Find answers to your most common job-searching questions.

Weekly office hours with Ashley 

Get real-time guidance, ask questions, and receive personalized advice. 

Curated job board 

Stay updated with the latest, hand-picked job postings for PhDs. 

Complete resume writing system

Create tailored, industry resumes that highlight your unique expertise.

Lifetime Access and Updates

BONUS: 25% off personalized consulting

Including in-depth resume reviews, LinkedIn feedback, and 1:1 meetings.

BONUS: The Art of Leaving Program

Reimagine your identity with this 9-week program from The Professor Is In.

4 spots open for month

GROW
VIP
For the most driven PhDs, ready to fast-track their career.
$400
per month for 6 months

$600 launch discount applied

(ends September 4)

Join the Waitlist

Enter your email address to be notified when spots open.

Everything in GROW, plus:

3x 1:1 meetings with Ashley

Strategy sessions tailored to your goals.

Direct messaging access to Ashley

Get support and answers to all your questions.

Feedback on your LinkedIn, Resumes, and Portfolios

Stand out with in-depth reviews of all your materials.

Tap in to Ashley’s network of 60k+ professionals

Get personalized introductions to fast-track your job search.

BONUS: 1:1 interview preparation session with Ashley

Nail your interviews with personalized coaching.

3 spots open for November

Have questions? Feel free to email me at hello@ashleyruba.com

Is the After Academia Incubator right for you?

The Incubator isn’t the right fit for every PhD. Here’s how you know if you’re ready to GROW:

You’re a good fit if:

You’re a PhD student, post-doc, adjunct, or professor who has decided to leave academia.

You understand that this program is a tool, and you’ll need to use it to get results.

You’re motivated, hard-working, resilient, and receptive to feedback.

You’ve accepted that changing careers can be a slow and difficult process.

You know there will be challenges ahead, and you’re ready to face them.

You’re not a good fit if:

You’re not willing to do the hard work required to change careers.

You’re not ready to embrace change and step outside your comfort zone.

You don’t have the time (or energy) to devote to this major life change.

You believe that people without PhDs are intellectually beneath you.

You want training for a specific career path (e.g., UX Research).

FAQs

Who has gone through the program?

The program has successfully helped graduate students, post-docs, and professors land their first non-academic jobs. The program has also helped PhDs land their second non-academic jobs. The program includes PhDs from every career field, although most students have a degree in the social sciences, life sciences, education, or humanities. Most students are American citizens searching for non-academic jobs in the United States, but successful students also include PhDs in Canada and Europe as well as international students. Non-PhD holding academics are also able to join the program on a case-by-case basis.

Do I need this program? Couldn’t I figure this out on my own?

Some PhDs figure out how to leave academia on their own. But many other PhDs struggle in their career change. If you are receiving rejections from your non-academic job applications OR if you have decided to leave academia and have no idea where to start, then you will benefit from this program. The program provides all the tools that you’ll need to grow your career (and life) outside of the ivory tower.

If you decide to go it alone, make sure that you are following best job search practices. There is so much bad advice and misinformation on the internet. Too many PhDs waste months unsuccessfully applying to jobs before deciding to join the program. Investing in your career change today will save you dozens of hours and thousands in lost potential wages.

How much personalized feedback will I receive?

The amount of personalized feedback depends on how you choose to join the program. Students in the GROW Plan can receive personalized feedback from the community or from Ashley in office hours. If you want more feedback, you can add 1:1 meetings and/or LinkedIn/resume reviews at a discounted rate.

Students in the GROW VIP Plan will receive 3 1:1 meetings with Ashley that they can use as needed. As you complete the curriculum, Ashley is available to answer questions asynchronously via text, voice message, or Loom video, with a guaranteed 48-hour response time (Monday through Friday). You will also get personalized feedback on all your job search materials, including LinkedIn profiles, portfolios, and resumes.

All students can also questions in the After Academia community anytime, even after the 6 month program ends.

Should I join GROW or GROW VIP?

There are two ways to join the Incubator, depending on your budget and learning style:

- GROW ($175/month): You’re confident that you can learn about the job search process and apply your knowledge correctly without much assistance. You’re comfortable building a network on your own. This is for PhDs who just need someone to show them what to do, and they’ll do it!

- GROW VIP ($400/month): You want to change careers as quickly as possible. You want a mentor by your side every step of the way, holding you accountable, giving you feedback, and helping you build your network. You don’t want to second guess whether you’re applying your knowledge correctly. You want to do this right, the first time.

Due to demand, a limited number of GROW VIP spots are available each month.

How much time do I need for the program?

The program is 6 months in length to allow flexibility in scheduling (life happens!). The core curriculum is self-paced and can be completed within a few hours per week. After you finish the program, you will have lifetime access to the After Academia community, all of the resources, and any program updates. You can also extend your time in the program on a month-by-month basis to receive more support from Ashley.

Where does the program take place?

The program takes place entirely on Circle. This is where you will interact the community in discussion boards, direct messages, and video calls. All of the resources are hosted there.

What is the end result of this program?

By the end of the 6-month program, you will have all the tools needed to succeed in a career outside of academia. You will have explored and identified a non-academic career path, made a detailed plan for your job search, created a LinkedIn profile and resume, started building your network, and practiced interviewing. You should expect to feel more confident about all aspects of the job search process.

While a job offer is not guaranteed by the end of the program, many students have received interviews and job offers within 6 months. Others have received interviews and job offers shortly after the program ends. The time it takes you to find a non-academic job depends on many factors, including your target career/industry, your current skills/experience, and the amount of time/effort you devote to your job search. During the first week of the program, you will review these factors and develop a personalized career plan tailored to your goals.

Do you guarantee any results?

The program is guaranteed to give you all the tools, resources, and support you need to receive a non-academic job offer. But, your career is in your own hands. You will need to build your network, apply for jobs, and pass your interviews. Successful students understand that they have to do the work to transplant their careers. You will find a non-academic job if you put in the effort and adopt a growth mindset. The program will help you every step of the way.

What happens after the program ends?

After 6 months, you will have lifetime access to the materials and the community. If you want more personalized support from Ashley, you can extend your time in the program on a week-by-week basis or schedule 1:1 coaching sessions as needed.