PhD attrition and unhealthy research environments 14 March 2024 16:00

This study investigates PhD candidates’ (N = 391) career considerations connected to perceptions about their research environment in terms of the research climate, (un)ethical supervisory practices, and questionable research practices. We gathered quantitative self-report estimations of the perceptions of PhD candidates using an online survey tool and then conducted descriptive and within-subject correlation analysis of the results. While most PhD candidates experience fair evaluation processes, openness, integrity, trust, and freedom in their research climate, many report lack of time and support, insufficient supervision, and witness questionable research practices. Spearman correlations indicate that those who experience a less healthy research environment (unethical supervision, questionable practices, and barriers to responsible research), more often consider leaving academia and their current PhD position. In this webinar, Andrea Kis will present the results of her study and the recommendations shared with university stakeholders, and outline connected lines of research on social sustainability in academia.