Hires-PhD: a transversal skills framework for diversifying PhD employability

This study aims to enhance the industrial employability of PhD graduates through the development of the HIRES-PhD framework, an abbreviation of High Impact Research and Employability Skills for the PhD. It identifies and categorizes essential transversal skills. Using a systematic literature review and thematic analysis, we screened 828 papers and selected 39 relevant studies to compile a database of 236 transversal skills. These skills were organized into 16 categories and further distilled into four overarching themes. The HIRES-PhD Framework is compared with traditional models like DOTS, USEM, and MCPHE, as well as recent European initiatives such as DocTalent4EU and OUTDOC. This comparison highlights the framework’s unique focus on doctoral training and industrial employability, unlike traditional models which often target broader educational contexts. Our findings emphasize the importance of a holistic approach to transversal skills training, tailored specifically to the needs of PhD graduates. The HIRES-PhD Framework serves as a comprehensive, data-driven tool for designing PhD programmes that align with industry demands, ensuring that doctoral training is relevant and effective in enhancing employability. In conclusion, the HIRES-PhD Framework significantly contributes to the improvement of doctoral education by providing a structured approach to transversal skills development, thus bridging the gap between academic training and industrial needs. This framework is a valuable resource for policymakers, educators, researchers, and employers aiming to optimize PhD programmes for better employment outcomes.