Mohammad Alian Nejadi, Assistant Professor, University of Amsterdam

In order to help current students and recent graduates to find their way in the working world, many of our alumni shared their career story. Here the story of Mohammad Alian Nejadi, Assistant Professor at the University of Amsterdam (NL). USI Degree: PhD in Informatics, 2019.

How did you start your career?

After finishing my PhD at USI, I fell in love with Information Retrieval and research. My passion was to continue exploring and discovering knowledge via research and stay in the academic environment. I pursued my postdoc at the University of Amsterdam and later continued as an Assistant Professor, where I can continue with my passion of teaching and research at the same time.

Why did you choose a career at the University of Amsterdam?

The University of Amsterdam is pioneering and strong in AI and IR. Amsterdam provides a dynamic collaboration between academia and industry and also hosts countless opportunities for faculty members, as well as PhD students.

What is your current role/duties?

My current role is Assistant Professor. I teach in the bachelor's and master's programs. I also conduct independent research and supervise PhD and master's students.

In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career at the University of Amsterdam?

Conducting high-quality research and being able to engage with the research community on an international level is the key to success at the University of Amsterdam.

What positive aspects and qualities meant most to you during the study programme you attended?

Being able to conduct research as a PhD student on novel topics and not being limited was very important. Also, being able to visit other groups and research labs was a bonus.

What competences and skills acquired in your USI Study Program have been useful/are useful to your professional career?

Being an independent researcher and being able to collaborate with my peers in the international research community.

What is your advice to USI students entering the job market?

Know your passion, and what you'd wake up every day for. If you are unsure between academia and industry, use a postdoc position as a means to learn and find your passion.