How Are Postdocs Doing? Rethinking the Postdoctoral Experience in Geosciences
Convener:
Eleanna Asvestari
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Co-conveners:
Giulia CozzaniECSECS,
Maxime Grandin,
Konstantinos Horaites
Although postdoctoral researchers are highly trained, having spent years building their set of competencies, the path to academic independence is highly – and increasingly – competitive, and often opaque. Many of these ‘’early-career’’ researchers ultimately leave academia altogether, not by preference, but due to structural barriers that hinder sustainable career development. These challenges, while experienced individually, are systemic in nature and have significant implications for the research community as a whole.
This short course aims to initiate a frank and constructive discussion on the conditions faced by postdoctoral researchers across geosciences. We will present recent data and findings from surveys specifically targeting the postdoctoral community, providing an evidence-based overview of the postdocs’ situation.
In addition to disseminating empirical data, the session will foster dialogue around re-envisioning the postdoctoral experience. What structural changes are necessary to improve the postdoc phase? What kinds of institutional or community support could help mitigate the existing challenges? How might funding agencies and universities contribute to a healthier and more equitable academic ecosystem?
The short course will include scene-setting presentations to initiate an interactive session with questions, comments, and collective discussion. We encourage the participation of not only postdocs, but also PhD students and senior researchers interested in improving the sustainability and inclusivity of academic careers.
The oral presentations are given in a hybrid format supported by a Zoom meeting featuring on-site and virtual presentations. The button to access the Zoom meeting appears just before the time block starts.