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Australian PhDs in Economics and Finance: Professional Activities, Productivity and Prospects

Author

Listed:
  • Yihui Lan

    (Business School, The University of Western Australia)

  • Kenneth W Clements

    (Business School, The University of Western Australia)

  • Zong Ken Chai

    (Business School, The University of Western Australia)

Abstract

We analyse the careers of more than 600 individuals with PhDs in economics or finance from Australian universities. About 60 percent are in now academia and one-quarter of those are at level E (professor). We construct publication and citation profiles that could be useful benchmarks. Academic experience (the number of years since gaining the PhD) is established as a major driver of publications and citations (but subject to diminishing returns). Four findings are noteworthy. (i) For those in academia, the matrix linking PhD-awarding and employing universities is sparse, but contains hints of geographic sub-networks. (ii) Outside the academic sector, there is a diverse range of jobs for PhDs. (iii) Females are substantially under represented, but there is no gender gap in research productivity. (iv) Finance scholars achieve research outcomes little different to economists.

Suggested Citation

  • Yihui Lan & Kenneth W Clements & Zong Ken Chai, 2022. "Australian PhDs in Economics and Finance: Professional Activities, Productivity and Prospects," Economics Discussion / Working Papers 22-04, The University of Western Australia, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:uwa:wpaper:22-04
    Note: MD5 = d614236bb7a5344e0ab2e5601fcc7a77
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    File URL: https://ecompapers.biz.uwa.edu.au/paper/PDF%20of%20Discussion%20Papers/2022/DP%2022.04_Lan%20Clements%20and%20Chai.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    1. Yihui Lan & Kenneth W. Clements & Zong Ken Chai, 2023. "How Productive Are Economics and Finance PhDs?," Australian Economic Review, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research, vol. 56(4), pages 442-461, December.

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