1.Analytic and intellectual capability . There is no ducking the issue that intelligence is vital. Mathematics and logic are crucial but some of our stars had no maths in their first degrees. The techniques can be taught but only if the capability is already there. Analytic capability includes the critical sense to spot flaws in complex theory.
Great academics listen well and think clearly.
You will need to be able to cope with the nuances and subtleties of both spoken and written academic English. Native English speaker or not, we are looking for the ability to two-way communicate clearly and crisply. Self-motivation is essential and brings with it the capacity to handle ambiguity. 4.Presentation personality . A successful academic career will depend on teaching performance and the ability to communicate one's ideas in seminars, at conferences, etc.