1
|
Hayes CA, Moore JT, Headley CA, Berrios-Negron AL, Lambert WM. Unlocking the power of virtual networking for early-career researchers. eLife 2024; 13:e96381. [PMID: 38501601 PMCID: PMC10950328 DOI: 10.7554/elife.96381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Many successful researchers in the biomedical sciences have benefitted from mentors and networks earlier in their career. However, early-career researchers from minoritized and underrepresented groups do not have the same access to potential mentors and networks as many of their peers. In this article we describe how 'cold emails' and social media platforms - notably Twitter/X and LinkedIn - can be used to build virtual networks, and stress the need to invest in maintaining networks once they have been established.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cellas A Hayes
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, School of Medicine, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | - Jordan T Moore
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | - Colwyn A Headley
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, School of Medicine, Stanford UniversityStanfordUnited States
| | | | - W Marcus Lambert
- School of Public Health, State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences UniversityBrooklynUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Meier N, Greenhalgh T, Hughes G, Papoutsi C. Theorising Support for Interdisciplinary Early-Career Researchers Using Communicative Genre and 'Rules of the Game'. Qual Health Res 2024:10497323231225150. [PMID: 38425252 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231225150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Qualitative social scientists working in medical faculties have to meet multiple expectations. On the one hand, they are expected to comply with the philosophical and theoretical expectations of the social sciences. On the other hand, they may also be expected to produce publications which align with biomedical definitions and framings of quality. As interdisciplinary scholars, they must handle (at least) two sets of journal editors, peer reviewers, grant-awarding panels, and conference audiences. In this paper, we extend the current knowledge base on the 'dual expectations' challenge by drawing on Orlikowski and Yates' theoretical concept of communicative genres. A 'genre' in this context is a format of communication (e.g. letter, email, academic paper, and conference presentation) aimed at a particular audience, having a particular material form and socio-linguistic style, and governed by both formal requirements and unwritten social rules. Becoming a member of any community of practice involves becoming familiar with its accepted communicative genres and adept in using them. Academic writing, for example, is a craft that is learned through participation in the social process of communicating one's ideas to one's peers in journal articles and other formats. In this reflective paper, we show how the concept of a communicative genre can sensitise us to the conflicting and often dissonant expectations and rule systems governing different academic fields. We use this key concept to suggest ways in which the faculty can support early-career researchers to progress in careers which straddle qualitative social science and medical science.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ninna Meier
- Department of Sociology and Social Work, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Trish Greenhalgh
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Gemma Hughes
- School of Business, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Chrysanthi Papoutsi
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Martins Garcia B. Don't face writer's block alone. eLife 2023; 12:e92931. [PMID: 37750421 PMCID: PMC10522331 DOI: 10.7554/elife.92931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Creating a writing club allowed a Brazilian PhD student to confront her fears, improve her English and, ultimately, change the way she sees research.
Collapse
|
4
|
Tan DW. Early-Career Autism Researchers Are Shifting Their Research Directions: Tragedy or Opportunity? Autism Adulthood 2023; 5:218-224. [PMID: 37663448 PMCID: PMC10468548 DOI: 10.1089/aut.2023.0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Early-career researchers (ECRs) are among the most creative, talented, and energetic researchers, and they play an important role in knowledge production and pushing scientific boundaries. Recent debates have implied that many early-career autism researchers are compelled to shift their areas of focus within autism research as a consequence of their work being scrutinized by the autistic and autism communities. In this Perspective, I draw on my own experience as an early-career autism researcher having recently pivoted my research focus to become more aligned with community priorities. I reflect on whether these putative shifts in research direction are, indeed, a tragedy, as has previously been suggested, or, in fact, an opportunity for autism researchers. I argue that pivoting in research is a demonstration of science adapting to the ever-evolving needs in society and changes in our understanding of neurodiversity, neurodivergence, and research methods. While disagreements between the autistic, autism, and research communities may well feel uncomfortable, these tensions also present an opportunity for us-as non-autistic autism researchers-to reflect and to act toward building trust with the community. I recommend three areas for reflections: the purpose of our research, our position of power, and the epistemic limits of our academic expertise. I end by encouraging ECRs to consider taking actions, however small, to lead the charge in improving practices in autism research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diana Weiting Tan
- Macquarie School of Education, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
- School of Psychological Science, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Telethon Kids Institute, Perth, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Crestana GS, Mendes J, Corrêa Dos Santos RA, Winck FV. Reshaping the research landscape in Brazil. eLife 2023; 12:e90533. [PMID: 37403921 DOI: 10.7554/elife.90533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Brazil would benefit from a long-term strategy for science and innovation that improves the standing of both science and scientists in the country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jéssica Mendes
- Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | | | - Flávia Vischi Winck
- Center of Nuclear Energy in Agriculture (CENA), University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Tendler BC, Welland M, Miller KL. Why every lab needs a handbook. eLife 2023; 12:e88853. [PMID: 37395453 DOI: 10.7554/elife.88853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
A lab handbook is a flexible document that outlines the ethos of a research lab or group. A good handbook will outline the different roles within the lab, explain what is expected of all lab members, provide an overview of the culture the lab aims to create, and describe how the lab supports its members so that they can develop as researchers. Here we describe how we wrote a lab handbook for a large research group, and provide resources to help other labs write their own handbooks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin C Tendler
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, FMRIB, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Maddie Welland
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, FMRIB, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Karla L Miller
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Neuroimaging, FMRIB, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Conibear AC, Hartrampf N. Reflections on Navigating a Pandemic: Perspectives from the Chemical Biology Community. Chembiochem 2023:e202300258. [PMID: 37341244 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202300258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
The early-career researchers showcased in this ChemBioTalents special collection, and many others who have established their independent scientific careers over the last three years, have experienced a unique set of circumstances. The Covid-19 pandemic necessitated new forms of communication and interpersonal interactions: From online interviews and virtual networking to relocating and establishing labs during a pandemic, we faced many challenges, but also unexpected opportunities. In this perspective, we reflect on this unique and formative time through personal anecdotes and viewpoints, trying to capture diverse experiences from the Chemical Biology community and beyond. We have tried to get a broad and varied set of perspectives, however, the selection is biased towards researchers who were able to start their independent careers. Almost every person who was interviewed mentioned that they were overall quite lucky. Many early career researchers were more negatively impacted in their career options by the pandemic, reasons for which are manifold - some had to take care of family members, while others were not able to cross borders, were unable to finish experiments for publications, or were negatively impacted by the low number of open faculty positions. Although we tried to include balanced views from various career stages and many parts of the world, we acknowledge that those stories are not captured in this editorial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne C Conibear
- Technical University of Vienna (TU Wien), Faculty of Technical Chemistry, Getreidemarkt 9, 1060, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nina Hartrampf
- University of Zurich, Department of Chemistry, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Proulx CN, Rubio DM, Norman MK, Mayowski CA. Shut Up & Write!® builds writing self-efficacy and self-regulation in early-career researchers. J Clin Transl Sci 2023; 7:e141. [PMID: 37396813 PMCID: PMC10308422 DOI: 10.1017/cts.2023.568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction High writing self-efficacy and self-regulation are tied to publication and grant submission. Writers with these attributes are more productive. We investigated whether participating in a Shut Up & Write!®-style intervention (SUAW) would produce statistically significant gains in writing self-efficacy and self-regulation when comparing pre-post-participation surveys. Methods Forty-seven medical students, TL1/KL2, and early-career faculty from across the USA expressed interest in participating, with 37 completing the pre-survey. We conducted (on Zoom) a 12-week SUAW series and measured the effect using a pre-post survey adapted from the Writer Self-Perception Scale. Paired t-tests (α = 0.05) were conducted on three subscales to test for significant differences between pre- and post-test means. The subscales reflected writing attitudes, writing strategies, and avoiding writing distractions. Subscales showed acceptable internal consistency with Cronbach's alphas of 0.80, 0.71, and 0.72, respectively. Results Twenty-seven participants attended at least one session. Of these, 81% presented as female, and 60% were from NIH-defined Underrepresented Backgrounds and/or were from Minority-Serving Institutions. Twenty-four completed both the pre- and post-surveys. Sixty percent previously participated in an activity similar to SUAW. We found significant improvements in writing attitudes (p = 0.020) and writing strategies (p = 0.041) for those who previously participated. For those who had not previously participated, we found improved writing strategies (p = 0.002). Eighty percent were very satisfied/satisfied with SUAW. Discussion Researchers have tied writing self-efficacy and self-regulation to timely publication and grant submission. We found significant gains in self-efficacy and self-regulation, suggesting that participation in a SUAW-style intervention may increase writing productivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chelsea N. Proulx
- Institute for Clinical Research Education, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Doris M. Rubio
- Institute for Clinical Research Education, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Marie K. Norman
- Institute for Clinical Research Education, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Colleen A. Mayowski
- Institute for Clinical Research Education, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bernery C, Lusardi L, Marino C, Philippe-Lesaffre M, Angulo E, Bonnaud E, Guéry L, Manfrini E, Turbelin A, Albert C, Arbieu U, Courchamp F. Highlighting the positive aspects of being a PhD student. eLife 2022; 11:81075. [PMID: 35880403 PMCID: PMC9322996 DOI: 10.7554/elife.81075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Articles about doing a PhD tend to focus on the difficulties faced by research students. Here we argue that the scientific community should also highlight the positive elements of the PhD experience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Bernery
- Laboratoire Écologie Systématique Évolution, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS and AgroParisTech, Orsay, France
| | - Léo Lusardi
- Laboratoire Écologie Systématique Évolution, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS and AgroParisTech, Orsay, France
| | - Clara Marino
- Laboratoire Écologie Systématique Évolution, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS and AgroParisTech, Orsay, France
| | - Martin Philippe-Lesaffre
- Laboratoire Écologie Systématique Évolution, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS and AgroParisTech, Orsay, France
| | - Elena Angulo
- Laboratoire Écologie Systématique Évolution, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS and AgroParisTech, Orsay, France.,Estación Biológica de Doñana, CSIC, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Elsa Bonnaud
- Laboratoire Écologie Systématique Évolution, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS and AgroParisTech, Orsay, France
| | - Loreleï Guéry
- UMR Plant Health Institute of Montpellier, CIRAD and INRAE, Montpellier, France
| | - Eléna Manfrini
- Laboratoire Écologie Systématique Évolution, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS and AgroParisTech, Orsay, France
| | - Anna Turbelin
- Laboratoire Écologie Systématique Évolution, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS and AgroParisTech, Orsay, France
| | - Céline Albert
- Laboratoire Écologie Systématique Évolution, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS and AgroParisTech, Orsay, France
| | - Ugo Arbieu
- Laboratoire Écologie Systématique Évolution, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS and AgroParisTech, Orsay, France.,Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.,Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, United States
| | - Franck Courchamp
- Laboratoire Écologie Systématique Évolution, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS and AgroParisTech, Orsay, France
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
Having a formal onboarding procedure for new lab members can lead to a happier and more productive working environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrey Andreev
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, United States
| | - Valerie Komatsu
- University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Paula Almiron
- AZTI, Food Research, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia, Spain
| | - Kasey Rose
- Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, United States
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Urban L, De Niz M, Fernández-Chiappe F, Ebrahimi H, Han LKM, Mehta D, Mencia R, Mittal D, Ochola E, Paz Quezada C, Romani F, Sinapayen L, Tay A, Varma A, Yahia Mohamed Elkheir L. eLife's new model and its impact on science communication. eLife 2022; 11:84816. [PMID: 36476569 PMCID: PMC9731567 DOI: 10.7554/elife.84816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The eLife Early-Career Advisory Group discusses eLife's new peer review and publishing model, and how the whole process of scientific communication could be improved for the benefit of early-career researchers and the entire scientific community.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara Urban
- Helmholtz Pioneer Campus, Helmholtz AI, Technical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | | | - Florencia Fernández-Chiappe
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires – CONICET – Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society, Buenos Aires, ArgentinaBuenos AiresArgentina
| | - Hedyeh Ebrahimi
- Non-communicable Diseases Research Center, Tehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIslamic Republic of Iran
| | - Laura KM Han
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, University of MelbourneParkvilleAustralia
| | - Devang Mehta
- Department of Biosystems, KU LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Regina Mencia
- Instituto de Agrobiotecnología del Litoral (CONICET-UNL)Sante FeArgentina
| | - Divyansh Mittal
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Elizabeth Ochola
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research InstituteKisumuKenya
| | - Carolina Paz Quezada
- Departamento de Química Ambiental, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Católica de la Santísima ConcepciónConcepciónChile
| | - Facundo Romani
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of CambridgeCambridgeUnited Kingdom
| | | | - Andy Tay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Aalok Varma
- National Centre for Biological SciencesBangaloreIndia
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sarabipour S, Hainer SJ, Arslan FN, de Winde CM, Furlong E, Bielczyk N, Jadavji NM, Shah AP, Davla S. Building and sustaining mentor interactions as a mentee. FEBS J 2021; 289:1374-1384. [PMID: 33818917 DOI: 10.1111/febs.15823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Mentorship is experience and/or knowledge-based guidance. Mentors support, sponsor and advocate for mentees. Having one or more mentors when you seek advice can significantly influence and improve your research endeavours, well-being and career development. Positive mentee-mentor relationships are vital for maintaining work-life balance and success in careers. Early-career researchers (ECRs), in particular, can benefit from mentorship to navigate challenges in academic and nonacademic life and careers. Yet, strategies for selecting mentors and maintaining interactions with them are often underdiscussed within research environments. In this Words of Advice, we provide recommendations for ECRs to seek and manage mentorship interactions. Our article draws from our experiences as ECRs and published work, to provide suggestions for mentees to proactively promote beneficial mentorship interactions. The recommended practices highlight the importance of identifying mentorship needs, planning and selecting multiple and diverse mentors, setting goals, and maintaining constructive, and mutually beneficial working relationships with mentors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarvenaz Sarabipour
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sarah J Hainer
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Feyza Nur Arslan
- Institute of Science and Technology Austria, Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Charlotte M de Winde
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London, UK.,Department of Molecular Cell Biology and Immunology, Amsterdam UMC Locatie VUmc, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Emily Furlong
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Natalia Bielczyk
- Welcome Solutions, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Stichting Solaris Onderzoek en Ontwikkeling, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nafisa M Jadavji
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA.,Department of Neuroscience, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Aparna P Shah
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sejal Davla
- Advanced Science Research Center, City University of New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
Scientific conferences have an important role in the exchange of ideas and knowledge within the scientific community. Conferences also provide early-career researchers with opportunities to make themselves known within their field of research. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has brought traditional in-person conferences to a halt for the foreseeable future, the growth of virtual conferences has highlighted many of the disadvantages associated with the in-person format and demonstrated the advantages of moving these events online. Here, based on data from in-person and virtual conferences in a range of subjects, we describe how virtual conferences are more inclusive, more affordable, less time-consuming and more accessible worldwide, especially for early-career researchers. Making conferences more open and inclusive will provide both immediate and long-term benefits to the scientific community.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarvenaz Sarabipour
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, United States
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cohen AB, Parks AL, Whitson HE, Zieman S, Brown CJ, Boyd C, Covinsky KE, Steinman MA. Succeeding in Aging Research During the Pandemic: Strategies for Fellows and Junior Faculty. J Am Geriatr Soc 2020; 69:8-11. [PMID: 33047812 PMCID: PMC7675665 DOI: 10.1111/jgs.16868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Fellows and junior faculty conducting aging research have encountered substantial new challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. They report that they have been uncertain how and whether to modify existing research studies, have faced difficulties with job searches, and have struggled to balance competing pressures including greater clinical obligations and increased responsibilities at home. Many have also wondered if they should shift gears and make COVID-19 the focus of their research. We asked a group of accomplished scientists and mentors to grapple with these concerns and to share their thoughts with readers of this journal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna L Parks
- University of California - San Francisco School of Medicine and the San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Heather E Whitson
- Duke University School of Medicine and Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Susan Zieman
- National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Cynthia J Brown
- University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine and the Birmingham/Atlanta VA Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center (GRECC), Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Cynthia Boyd
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Kenneth E Covinsky
- University of California - San Francisco School of Medicine and the San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Michael A Steinman
- University of California - San Francisco School of Medicine and the San Francisco VA Medical Center, San Francisco, California
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bankston A, Davis SM, Moore E, Niziolek CA, Boudreau V. Why scientific societies should involve more early-career researchers. eLife 2020; 9:60829. [PMID: 32965217 PMCID: PMC7511228 DOI: 10.7554/elife.60829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Early-career researchers (ECRs) make up a large portion of the academic workforce. Yet, most leadership positions in scientific societies are held by senior scientists, and ECRs have little to no say over the decisions that will shape the future of research. This article looks at the level of influence ECRs have in 20 scientific societies based in the US and UK, and provides guidelines on how societies can successfully include ECRs in leadership roles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Bankston
- Board of Directors, Future of Research, Pittsfield, United States
| | - Stephanie M Davis
- Board of Directors, Future of Research, Pittsfield, United States.,ECR leader, American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Rockville, United States
| | - Elisabeth Moore
- Board of Directors, Future of Research, Pittsfield, United States.,Center for Information and Study on Clinical Research Participation (CISCRP), Boston, United States
| | - Caroline A Niziolek
- Board of Directors, Future of Research, Pittsfield, United States.,Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, United States
| | - Vincent Boudreau
- Board of Directors, Future of Research, Pittsfield, United States.,Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Davis SM, Singh H, Weismann CM, Bankston A, Sancheznieto F. Actionable recommendations from trainees to improve science training. eLife 2020; 9:e59806. [PMID: 32762839 PMCID: PMC7413740 DOI: 10.7554/elife.59806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past 20 years, a series of reports written by groups of senior researchers and administrators have recommended changes to improve the training environments for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in the United States. However, academic institutions and departments have largely failed to implement these recommendations, which has exacerbated the problems faced by these trainees. Here, based on input from trainees at different career stages, we outline seven practical changes that academic institutions and departments can make to improve their training environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Harinder Singh
- Future of ResearchPittsfieldUnited States
- Graduate Professional Success in STEM, University of California, IrvineIrvineUnited States
| | | | | | - Fátima Sancheznieto
- Future of ResearchPittsfieldUnited States
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin MadisonMadisonUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Mehta D, Bediako Y, de Winde CM, Ebrahimi H, Fernández-Chiappe F, Ilangovan V, Paz Quezada C, Riley JL, Saladi SM, Tay A, Weissgerber T. Ways to increase equity, diversity and inclusion. eLife 2020; 9:60438. [PMID: 32633721 PMCID: PMC7340500 DOI: 10.7554/elife.60438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The eLife Early-Career Advisory Group (ECAG), an international group of early-career researchers committed to improving research culture, calls for radical changes at eLife and other journals to address racism in the scientific community and to make science more diverse and inclusive.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devang Mehta
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Yaw Bediako
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Charlotte M de Winde
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hedyeh Ebrahimi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Florencia Fernández-Chiappe
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires - CONICET - Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Carolina Paz Quezada
- Centro Integrativo de Biología y Química Aplicada, Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Julia L Riley
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.,Department of Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Shyam M Saladi
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics Option, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, United States
| | - Andy Tay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tracey Weissgerber
- QUEST - Quality
- Ethics
- Open Science
- Translation, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin Institutes of Health, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Early-career researchers feel discouraged from exposing vulnerability even during a global crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jasper Elan Hunt
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Fernandes JD, Sarabipour S, Smith CT, Niemi NM, Jadavji NM, Kozik AJ, Holehouse AS, Pejaver V, Symmons O, Bisson Filho AW, Haage A. A survey-based analysis of the academic job market. eLife 2020; 9:e54097. [PMID: 32530420 PMCID: PMC7360372 DOI: 10.7554/elife.54097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Many postdoctoral researchers apply for faculty positions knowing relatively little about the hiring process or what is needed to secure a job offer. To address this lack of knowledge about the hiring process we conducted a survey of applicants for faculty positions: the survey ran between May 2018 and May 2019, and received 317 responses. We analyzed the responses to explore the interplay between various scholarly metrics and hiring outcomes. We concluded that, above a certain threshold, the benchmarks traditionally used to measure research success - including funding, number of publications or journals published in - were unable to completely differentiate applicants with and without job offers. Respondents also reported that the hiring process was unnecessarily stressful, time-consuming, and lacking in feedback, irrespective of outcome. Our findings suggest that there is considerable scope to improve the transparency of the hiring process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jason D Fernandes
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Santa CruzSanta CruzUnited States
| | - Sarvenaz Sarabipour
- Institute for Computational Medicine, Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Christopher T Smith
- Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, North Carolina State University Graduate SchoolRaleighUnited States
| | - Natalie M Niemi
- Morgridge Institute for ResearchMadisonUnited States
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin-MadisonMadisonUnited States
| | - Nafisa M Jadavji
- Department of Biomedical Sciences Midwestern UniversityGlendaleUnited States
| | - Ariangela J Kozik
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of MichiganAnn ArborUnited States
| | - Alex S Holehouse
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of MedicineSt LouisUnited States
| | - Vikas Pejaver
- Department of Biomedical Informatics and Medical Education, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
- The eScience Institute, University of WashingtonSeattleUnited States
| | - Orsolya Symmons
- Department of Bioengineering, University of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaUnited States
| | - Alexandre W Bisson Filho
- Department of Biology, Brandeis UniversityWalthamUnited States
- Rosenstiel Basic Medical Science Research Center, Brandeis UniversityWalthamUnited States
| | - Amanda Haage
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of North DakotaGrand ForksUnited States
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
As the world attempts to cope with the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, researchers about to start PhDs and postdocs face particular challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andy Tay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Weissgerber T, Bediako Y, de Winde CM, Ebrahimi H, Fernández-Chiappe F, Ilangovan V, Mehta D, Paz Quezada C, Riley JL, Saladi SM, Sarabipour S, Tay A. Mitigating the impact of conference and travel cancellations on researchers' futures. eLife 2020; 9:e57032. [PMID: 32216872 PMCID: PMC7101232 DOI: 10.7554/elife.57032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The need to protect public health during the current COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated conference cancellations on an unprecedented scale. As the scientific community adapts to new working conditions, it is important to recognize that some of our actions may disproportionately affect early-career researchers and scientists from countries with limited research funding. We encourage all conference organizers, funders and institutions who are able to do so to consider how they can mitigate the unintended consequences of conference and travel cancellations and we provide seven recommendations for how this could be achieved. The proposed solutions may also offer long-term benefits for those who normally cannot attend conferences, and thus lead to a more equitable future for generations of researchers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tracey Weissgerber
- QUEST – Quality | Ethics | Open Science | Translation, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin Institutes of HealthBerlinGermany
- Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Mayo ClinicRochesterUnited States
| | - Yaw Bediako
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of GhanaAccraGhana
| | - Charlotte M de Winde
- MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology, University College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Hedyeh Ebrahimi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical SciencesTehranIslamic Republic of Iran
| | - Florencia Fernández-Chiappe
- Instituto de Investigación en Biomedicina de Buenos Aires - CONICET - Partner Institute of the Max Planck SocietyBuenos AiresArgentina
| | | | - Devang Mehta
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of AlbertaEdmontonCanada
| | - Carolina Paz Quezada
- Centro Integrativo de Biología y Química Aplicada, Universidad Bernardo O'HigginsSantiagoChile
| | - Julia L Riley
- Department of Botany and Zoology, Stellenbosch UniversityStellenboschSouth Africa
- Department of Biology, Dalhousie UniversityHalifaxCanada
| | - Shyam M Saladi
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics Option, California Institute of TechnologyPasadenaUnited States
| | - Sarvenaz Sarabipour
- Institute for Computational Medicine and the Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins UniversityBaltimoreUnited States
| | - Andy Tay
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
eLife is making changes to its policies on peer review in response to the impact of COVID-19 on the scientific community.
Collapse
|
23
|
Marder E. Love writing. eLife 2019; 8:45734. [PMID: 30843521 PMCID: PMC6405241 DOI: 10.7554/elife.45734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Clear writing is the key to success.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eve Marder
- Volen Center, Brandeis University, Waltham, United States.,Biology Department, Brandeis University, Waltham, United States
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Early-career researchers can learn about peer review by discussing preprints at journal clubs and sending feedback to the authors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prachee Avasthi
- Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, United States
| | - Alice Soragni
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, United States
| | - Joshua N Bembenek
- Department of Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, United States
| |
Collapse
|