student pulse
EMPOWERING CAREER
SUSTAINABILITY IN SCIENCE
Career Support Group (CSG) for Science PhDs on Facebook and ClubSciWri
website, are two unique platforms where post-doctoral scholars engage in
passionate interactions over educational policies as well as student issues
T
BY RAHUL KOUL
he idea of doctoral training is based on a vision
to prepare the next generation scientists and
academicians for the ultimate benefit of
mankind. While the thought is extremely noble and
just, it lacks a pragmatic approach within the current
funding scenario in the academic world. It is a pain to
see the budding researchers go through a period of
unending struggles to find the respect and financial
security within societal norms. Given the stigma, few
times it is very difficult to strike a balance between
career and personal life.
But that is not stopping the students to opt for the
research which is apparent from the increase in Ph.D.
awards each year, especially in developing countries.
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BioVoiceNews | July 2016
At the same time, the ratio of PhDs being awarded
and the dwindling number of university faculty
positions over the years appear to be no surprise.
Compared to India, the US or European universities,
the funding agencies have started spending a
considerable amount of money to educate PhDs
about alternate careers so that they don't get stuck
as an under-employed labor force in institutes or
remain unemployed.
So whom should our Indian researchers turn to, to
discuss their genuine issues? While it is not necessary
that all their problems should get resolved in one go,
but a platform of like-minded people can make them
feel better. And there already is one such place now.