PhD interrupted by personal safety issues, now publication record is thin
How can I deal with this in front of employers or collaborators without giving exact details, which are private in nature? I asked an AI, and it said giving direct responses was a good idea but I think in cases such as mine people are more likely to victim blame.
Other details, I didn’t quit or take a leave so no one knows. I am bringing this question up now because a professor has literally remarked that my publication record is “thin”.
I highly doubt collaborators are thinking less of you for not having more publications! After all, if they are collaborators they've already decided to work with you.
My understanding is you were awarded a PhD but with the minimum number of papers? This sounds completely normal. If you are trying for faculty positions it may appear "thin", but in industry will make you stand out for many jobs. In AI, there are many researchers who don't have a PhD!
It does sound awkward if asked why you didn't write more papers, but you can just discuss some of the challenges you faced in your existing works rather than getting into personal details.