Early career researchers thoughts on academic careers: updated evidence from the Society for Social Medicine and Population Health

A 2015 Society for Social Medicine and Population Health (SSM) survey1 of early career researchers (ECRs) highlighted several challenges faced, including job insecurity, limited academic career development opportunities, and a lack of mentorship. Based on these findings, SSM introduced ECR workshops and networking events, a mentoring scheme, and publicised job and funding opportunities. To evaluate progress on these issues, we surveyed ECR members in 2021. The survey was conducted during the Covid-19 pandemic and occurred alongside the UK industrial action related to academic working conditions. Key findings are highlighted in figure 1. Below, for context, we provide some comparisons with responses in 2015,1 while recognising the limitations of drawing conclusions from repeat cross-sectional surveys.

Of 48 responses, three-quarters were female and at least one respondent came from every region of the UK and Ireland.

Job security

Job insecurity remains high; 57% of ECRs report receiving poor…

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