PhD / Research Scientist to LEK: How to Make the Transition
Researchers and scientists from academia or R&D looking to apply their expertise in consulting.
Boutique feel with focus on analytical rigor and client intimacy.
Why LEK Values PhD Backgrounds
LEK's life sciences focus makes it an excellent fit for PhDs. Your scientific training enables sophisticated analysis of clinical pipelines, competitive dynamics, and portfolio strategy in pharmaceutical due diligence.
Transferable Skills to Highlight
Deep analytical rigor
Demonstrate 80/20 application of research skills. LEK values depth but prioritizes actionable insights over academic completeness.
Hypothesis-driven thinking
Use specific examples with measurable outcomes. LEK values concrete evidence of this skill applied to achieve results.
Research methodology
Use specific examples with measurable outcomes. LEK values concrete evidence of this skill applied to achieve results.
Data analysis expertise
Use specific examples with measurable outcomes. LEK values concrete evidence of this skill applied to achieve results.
Technical communication
Use specific examples with measurable outcomes. LEK values concrete evidence of this skill applied to achieve results.
Common Challenges & How to Address Them
Speed of consulting
Practice timed cases relentlessly. Learn the 80/20 principle and apply it consciously. LEK will test your ability to prioritize and deliver under time pressure.
80/20 principle adoption
Consciously practice stopping analysis at "good enough." Time-box all practice activities. LEK values pragmatic thoroughness over academic completeness.
Business context building
Address directly through targeted practice and preparation. LEK interviewers will probe for evidence you've overcome this gap.
Synthesis over depth
Address directly through targeted practice and preparation. LEK interviewers will probe for evidence you've overcome this gap.
Resume Tips for PhD Candidates
- Lead with impact, not responsibilities. Instead of "PhD duties," quantify achievements: revenue generated, costs saved, efficiency improved.
- Translate PhD terminology into business language. LEK reviewers may not know your industry jargon.
- Highlight cross-functional work and stakeholder management. LEK values candidates who've navigated complex organizational dynamics.
- Include any consulting-adjacent experience: internal strategy projects, due diligence support, business case development.
- Show progression and increasing scope of responsibility. LEK wants evidence of growth trajectory and leadership potential.
- Lead with commercial implications of research, not methodology or publications.
- Keep it to one page. Consulting resumes prioritize impact over academic completeness.
Case Interview Tips for PhD Candidates
- Structure first, always. LEK tests your ability to organize problems before diving into analysis.
- Practice mental math until it's automatic. Hesitation on numbers raises red flags regardless of background.
- Drive the case proactively. LEK wants candidates who can lead client conversations, not just respond to questions.
- Apply the 80/20 rule consciously. Perfect analysis in 30 minutes beats thorough analysis in 3 hours.
- Your hypothesis-driven approach is valuable. Lead with hypotheses, then test them quickly.
- Practice synthesis and recommendations. Consulting values actionable conclusions over exhaustive analysis.
Networking Strategies for LEK
- Connect with PhD alumni at LEK through LinkedIn. Ask for 15-minute informational calls focused on their transition experience.
- Attend LEK recruiting events and introduce yourself with a clear, concise background summary that highlights your unique value.
- Join consulting prep communities and case interview groups. Network with other PhD candidates making similar transitions.
- Reach out to LEK recruiters with a tailored message explaining why your PhD background is relevant to their practice areas.
- Ask for referrals strategically. LEK, like most consulting firms, prioritizes referred candidates in the screening process.
- Connect through academic conferences where LEK may recruit or present research.
Preparation Timeline
Foundation Building(4-6 weeks)
- Complete business fundamentals courses if needed
- Start daily mental math practice (15-20 min/day)
- Begin reading business publications and case studies
- Research LEK's culture, values, and recent work
- Update resume with consulting-focused framing
Case Interview Mastery(6-8 weeks)
- Learn and practice all major case frameworks
- Complete 30+ practice cases with feedback
- Master market sizing and estimation questions
- Practice structuring ambiguous problems
- Time your cases to build speed and confidence
Behavioral Preparation(2-3 weeks)
- Prepare 8-10 stories using LEK's behavioral framework
- Practice articulating why consulting and why now
- Develop LEK-specific answers for "why this firm"
- Prepare questions demonstrating firm research and genuine interest
- Practice with mock interviews if available
Application & Networking(2-4 weeks)
- Submit application to LEK
- Reach out to contacts for referrals if possible
- Continue case practice at interview pace
- Research interviewers on LinkedIn when scheduled
- Plan logistics and professional attire for interviews
Key Success Factors
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