Training needs of early career researchers in research-intensive universities

Bhakta, D. and Boeren, E. (2016) Training needs of early career researchers in research-intensive universities. International Journal for Researcher Development, 7(1), pp. 84-102. (doi: 10.1108/IJRD-06-2015-0017)

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Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore the training needs of early career researchers (ECRs) in British research-intensive universities. This paper presents a new measurement scale constructed based on the Vitae Researcher Development Framework (a national framework in the UK to help researchers plan their training and development pathways) that disseminates ECRs’ training needs according to the four vitae development domains. Design/methodology/approach: This paper discusses the result of a survey organised among ECRs who were asked to fill-in an online questionnaire, which included a newly developed measurement scale. Training needs are analysed based on 57 respondents working in British research-intensive universities and having obtained their PhDs not more than five years prior to the survey. Findings: This paper offers an insight into the experiences of ECRs in research-intensive universities in relation to their training needs, which are very much centred around the notion of becoming a subject-specific expert, who is able to attract research funding and lead and manage these projects, including the successful supervision of students. Originality/value: The current academic environment is extremely competitive, and as in other segments of the labour market, it is vital that ECRs recognise the need of continuous training to maintain their competitive status in the knowledge-based economy. This paper is original, as it disseminates a new measurement scale and provides fresh empirical results on the training needs of ECRs in British research-intensive universities.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Boeren, Professor Ellen
Authors: Bhakta, D., and Boeren, E.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > School of Education
Journal Name:International Journal for Researcher Development
Publisher:Emerald
ISSN:2048-8696
Published Online:09 May 2016
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2016, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
First Published:First published in International Journal for Researcher Development 7(1):84-102
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy

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