Finding a job in academia is already very tough for new graduates considering the funding limitations and extreme competition. What are the reasons in your opinion? What are the consequences of new graduates leaving academia? What can be done to prevent it?
In my opinion funding limitations and competition are relevant points, but perhaps a key factor is that the impact of research carried out in high-tec companies and multinationals is outstanding and probably the direct results of the research carried out can be more easily appreciated. In countries like Spain, there are additional aspects such as the limited income when working at universities and research institutions and the lack of support from the government.
In my opinion funding limitations and competition are relevant points, but perhaps a key factor is that the impact of research carried out in high-tec companies and multinationals is outstanding and probably the direct results of the research carried out can be more easily appreciated. In countries like Spain, there are additional aspects such as the limited income when working at universities and research institutions and the lack of support from the government.
Recent graduates should be aware that employability chances in academia are limited but this doesn't mean they cannot pursue a career in their academic field if they wish to do so. At least in my country the main reason that is very tough for a doctor or post-doc to find a field-related position is exactly what has already been mentioned in previous answers, there are too many postgraduates and doctoral students most of them aiming to be researchers or lecturers at various institutes or universities while there is great competition and only few vacancies. As Jose F. Domene properly suggested, professors and other educators or professionals, I would also include career counselors, at universities or colleges should help students broaden out their perspectives and make them think several alternative career paths and decisions which would satisfy them in the long term. However, students who really deserve to offer in academia and they fit this environment should be encouraged to stay to it. Finally, there might be consequences for education while graduates leave academia but on the other hand some graduates would be performing better and offering most as professionals outside academia. I would transform this interesting and good question to another fruitful question: Who may be considered to be the best candidates to pursue a career in academia and why?
Hi!
I invite you to read this interesting article to answer your question 'what happens when you leave science?'
http://www.thespectroscope.com/read/what-happens-when-you-leave-science-by-arjun-raj-218
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