In 2023, the British Academy commissioned 11 members of its Early Career Researcher Network to write about their experiences of life and work in UK higher education. The essay collection shines a light on the voices, perspectives and journeys of early career researchers, poignantly showcasing the realities and challenges faced by researchers at this stage of their careers, ranging from precarious contracts and grant applications to balancing parenthood with the pressures of academic life. The authors offer a mixture of personal insights, policy solutions and practical advice to some of these hurdles, while also highlighting the fulfilling and rewarding moments in their careers.