Why do we start considering PhD as just another degree here? Why is it being thought of as an "examination" that has to be passed to get a "good job" in industry or academia? Why can't we think of it as a unique experience that people have while delving into a particular field?
Regarding the capability of a researcher, lets leave it to the organization to which the are employed. If the Research lab or University doesn't feel they are good enough, its their policy to show them the door. In the words of Prof. H.T. Kung (at Carnegie Mellon) :
" Experience from Ph.D. thesis research is unique. One learns how to do research. Future research is going to be more interesting because you will know how to do it, so you will have more freedom and fun. Almost all leaders in research have this experience. You will have confidence in your research ability. You will look at things differently than people who did not go through this process. It is very clear that Ph.D. thesis research is still the best way we know of in developing powerful researchers. In summary, it is the best investment for becoming a successful researcher."
PS: Just Highlighting a well known fact : Most people end up doing entirely different than what their PhD thesis was on about. Its a fast changing world!
