It's only guaranteed employment in certain countries. I completed my PhD in the UK, and I got funding that just about covered living expenses, and this is norm

It's only guaranteed employment in certain countries. I completed my PhD in the UK, and I got funding that just about covered living expenses, and this is normally only for 3 years (13.500 pounds a year). The 4th and last year, normally reserved for write up, you normally get nothing (I managed to get 1/2 year extra funding). Even worse, any month longer than the 4 years and you start paying fines to the university if you still want to finish. Also, my status was that of a student, not employment. No pension or other benefits.