Early career researcher pathways: a narrative inquiry

The competitive higher education and research sectors leave many early career researchers struggling for job security and career advancement. This study examined the life experiences of doctoral graduates who shared stories of their doctoral studies and progress along career pathways. Narrative inquiry revealed three dominant career trajectories: teaching and service; research leadership, and portfolio/cross-sectoral pathways. Prioritisation of research activities, community and collegial engagement, and the capacity to pivot when faced with challenges of changing work contexts shaped their identity development. Findings revealed that diverse engagements enhance researchers’ career advancement in a post Covid-19 environment.

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