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Career Development of Early Career Researchers via Distributed Peer Mentoring Networks

Author

Listed:
  • Annika Martin

    (Department of Education, University of Vienna, 1010 Vienna, Austria)

  • Julia Mori

    (Department of Research in School and Instruction, University of Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland)

  • Dominik Emanuel Froehlich

    (Department of Education, University of Vienna, 1010 Vienna, Austria)

Abstract

This paper explores the challenges early career researchers (ECRs) face in academia and the benefits of being part of a distributed peer mentoring network. The study highlights the importance of social capital and emotional and motivational support in promoting wellbeing and career development, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using both qualitative and quantitative methods, the paper examines the impact of a collaborative environment on individual productivity and the development of clear goals. The study reveals that the supportive network of like-minded, ambitious people across borders and hierarchies offers the opportunity to identify with others and create a sense of belonging. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for qualitative methods of social network analysis to investigate the meaning of social structures in the career development of ECRs.

Suggested Citation

  • Annika Martin & Julia Mori & Dominik Emanuel Froehlich, 2023. "Career Development of Early Career Researchers via Distributed Peer Mentoring Networks," Merits, MDPI, vol. 3(3), pages 1-14, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jmerit:v:3:y:2023:i:3:p:34-582:d:1232249
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Roach, Michael & Sauermann, Henry, 2010. "A taste for science? PhD scientists' academic orientation and self-selection into research careers in industry," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 39(3), pages 422-434, April.
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