Pressure, precarity and paucity; the existence of the postdoc

Preprints in Motion

In this episode, we explore the structural problems within academia, particularly the challenges faced by postdocs and the role of principal investigators (PIs). Our discussion highlights the power funders and university management have in shaping academic culture, the flaws in the tenure system, and the need for systemic change. We also emphasize the importance of fostering a better working environment for postdocs and senior staff, who often leave due to dissatisfaction with the current system.

If this episode resonated with you or you’re facing similar challenges, reach out — we’d love to hear your experiences.

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The intro and outro music is Back to the Woods by Jason Shaw and is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 United States License. Sound effects used under the standard ZapSplat licence. Fill music is New Lands by Alex-Productions https://soundcloud.com/alexproductionsmusic. Creative Commons used under a CC BY 3.0 license.