Should I do a PhD or what else?

Question

Studied Bach Biomed Sci and honours and been working as a Research Assistant (RA) in reproductive science field and have been asked by boss if wanted to do a phd. There is a perfect project available and have to give him an answer soon.
I like being an RA bc job is flexible, dont have to work weekends,do what supervisor asks.
Why I dont want to do a phd:more work(long hrs, working weekends) and wont be paid for it(will get less than 1/2 salary than what i get now),need to be passionate about the research(i mean i like science but not so passionate about it), need to b mentally focused to do it (which i dont think i am), and dont think i want to be a post doc or lecturer after i finish (i cant see myself in those positions).
What are the job opportunities like after doing a Phd(apart from being a postdoc or lecturer?Is it harder to get certain jobs?I heard phds may be overqualified.
What other career opportunities are there in the biomed field apart from doing phd?

Answer 1

PhD does involve an academic frame of mind. It is also usually a beginning to an academic career that is often low paid.

Avoid this step if you feel that it is not your line. one has to like the job. One lives like a hermit, and about as rich.

It is also true that most industries look askance at PhDs. However, those biotech companies doing cutting edge product development do hire PhDs, who also like that kind of work.

Otherwise, it may be best to join a good biomed industry and get some on the job training as needed.

Answer 2

It sounds to me like you have answered your own question. If you don't have a burning desire to pursue a higher degree, don't do it. You might regret it later on if you do. I think one of the greatest sources of unhappiness among educated working people in society is that they spend too much time fulfilling the expectations of others and not enough time listening to their own heart and pursuing their own dreams.

As far as other career opportunities in the biomedical field are concerned, do on-line searches to find out. You must have contacts with others in this field through your job. Talk to them on a confidential basis.