Academic ecosystems must evolve to support a sustainable postdoc workforce

Murielle Ålund, Nathan Emery, Benjamin J.M. Jarrett, Kirsty J. MacLeod, Helen F. McCreery, Nadya Mamoozadeh, John G. Phillips, Jory Schossau, Andrew W. Thompson, Alexa R. Warwick, Kelsey M. Yule, Erin R. Zylstra, Eben Gering

    Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

    Abstract

    The postdoctoral workforce comprises a growing proportion of the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) community, and plays a vital role in advancing science. Postdoc professional development, however, remains rooted in outdated realities. We propose enhancements to postdoc-centred policies and practices to better align this career stage with contemporary job markets and work life. By facilitating productivity, wellness and career advancement, the proposed changes will benefit all stakeholders in postdoc success—including research teams, institutions, professional societies and the scientific community as a whole. To catalyse reform, we outline recommendations for (1) skills-based training tailored to the current career landscape, and (2) supportive policies and tools outlined in postdoc handbooks. We also invite the ecology and evolution community to lead further progressive reform.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)777–781
    Number of pages7
    JournalNature Ecology and Evolution
    Volume4
    Issue number6
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2020 Jun

    Subject classification (UKÄ)

    • Media and Communication Studies
    • Environmental Management

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