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An early career researcher which usually means within eight years completing the PhD, around the age of 32-38. After successfully defending my PhD thesis in 2021, four years have passed by, including 2 years's post doc studying and 2 more years' professional career training. For someone who acquired PhD degree earlier at age of 28(22.5+5.5), they have a great chance to transit to an independent researcher in either academic or industrial before 35 if they involve in a great project. This suggests within seven years after graduating, there are chances for stepping onto a higher level.
Of course, a great project desires the long time to keep focus on, while it is not always the case to contribute to the research without worrying about the cost of living.