Table of Contents

Postgraduate CV template (text format)

PERSONAL STATEMENT

Postgraduate Researcher with a strong background in research methodology, data analysis, and academic publishing, currently serving as a Research Assistant at Durham University. Proven ability to manage complex research projects, collaborate effectively with teams, and contribute to high-impact publications. Skilled in quantitative and qualitative analysis, statistical tools, and project management, seeking to leverage these skills in a challenging research or academic role.

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

Research Assistant
Durham University, Durham
January 20XX – Present

  • Conduct comprehensive research using quantitative and qualitative methodologies, contributing to the publication of two peer-reviewed papers
  • Manage data analysis for a major project using SPSS, resulting in a 15% improvement in data accuracy
  • Collaborate with a team of 5 researchers, successfully completing a complex project ahead of schedule
  • Present ongoing findings in departmental meetings, influencing the direction of future studies
  • Assist in securing a £50,000 research grant by contributing to proposal development and data projections

Data Analyst Intern
Northumbria University, Newcastle
September 20XX – December 20XX

  • Performed in-depth statistical analysis using Python
  • Assisted in managing a project budget, ensuring resources were allocated efficiently and within limits
  • Presented findings to senior faculty members
  • Collaborated on a cross-departmental project, integrating multiple datasets
  • Completed a detailed report on data trends, improving research transparency and guiding future projects

EDUCATION

Durham University, Durham (20XX–20XX)
MSc Data Science, Distinction

University of Leeds, Leeds (20XX–20XX)
BSc (Hons) Mathematics, First-Class Honours

How to write a postgraduate CV

Writing a strong CV as a postgraduate requires effectively showcasing your academic achievements, research experience, and relevant skills to potential employers.

This guide will help you highlight your education and career aspirations, helping you stand out as you transition from academia to the professional world.

A good example of a CV.
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1. Write a personal statement with a strong academic mission

Your personal statement as a postgraduate should emphasise your academic background, research skills, and any relevant practical experience gained through internships, projects, or part-time work. It should also highlight your career aspirations and how your postgraduate study aligns with your future goals.

Example personal statement

Motivated and academically accomplished postgraduate with an MSc in Data Science from the University of Edinburgh. Possess strong analytical and research skills, with experience in data analysis, machine learning, and statistical modelling. Eager to apply advanced knowledge and technical expertise to drive innovation and problem-solving in a data-driven environment. Passionate about leveraging data insights to support business decision-making and improve operational efficiency.

2. Emphasise research in your education section

As a postgraduate, your education section is one of the most important aspects of your CV. Include your degree(s), institution(s), graduation dates, key modules, and any notable research or dissertation topics. Highlight coursework that aligns with the roles you’re applying for and any relevant academic achievements.

Example education section

MSc Biology, University of Edinburgh | 20XX–20XX
Key Modules: Molecular Biology, Ecology, Genetics, Bioinformatics
Dissertation: ‘Investigating Genetic Variation in [specific species or topic]’

BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences, University of Leeds | 20XX–20XX
Graduated with First-Class Honours
Key Modules: Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Evolutionary Biology

3. Tailor your CV to your goal

A postgraduate CV should be focused and relevant to your next step—whether that’s applying for a master’s or PhD programme, a research assistant post, or entering the workforce.

If you’re aiming for an academic or research-focused role, highlight your educational background, dissertation or thesis topic, research methods, publications, and any conference presentations. Admissions tutors and supervisors are interested in your academic potential, intellectual curiosity, and contributions to your field.

If your goal is a professional or industry position, shift the emphasis towards practical experience, internships, and skills that show you can apply your knowledge in a real-world setting. Demonstrate transferable abilities such as leadership, problem-solving, and communication.

Tailoring your CV means aligning your achievements and examples with what matters most to the opportunity at hand. Read the role description carefully, mirror its key terms, and make sure every detail on your CV supports your goal.

Need more ideas?

Our library of CV examples has hundreds of tailored CVs you can use to fine-tune your job application and stand out from other applicants.

Lauren Mastroni, a CV expert with CV Genius.
Written by

Lauren Mastroni

Lauren Mastroni is a CV expert and careers counsellor dedicated to crafting engaging content and providing actionable advice that empowers people in their job searches. An enthusiastic contributor to the CV Genius team, Lauren has a passion for developing valuable resources for job seekers. Lauren holds an MSc in Psychology from the University of Derby. She enjoys learning all she can about the career space, and is committed to helping job seekers of all experience levels navigate the job hunt and advance their careers. You can reach Lauren at [lauren] AT [resumegenius.com].