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Do successful PhD outcomes reflect the research environment rather than academic ability?
Daniel L Belavy1, Patrick J Owen1, Patricia M Livingston2
1Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia.
Plos One
|August 7, 2020
Summary
PhD student success hinges on research environment and supervisor experience, not prior academics. Scholarships also boost publications and reduce attrition, questioning merit-based awards.
Area of Science:
- Higher Education
- Research Productivity
- Graduate Studies
Background:
- Universities globally prioritize research productivity, with graduate programs being key drivers.
- Effective student selection is crucial for enhancing research outcomes, yet empirical data on success factors is limited.
- Understanding factors influencing PhD outcomes is vital for improving university rankings and research output.
Purpose of the Study:
- To empirically investigate factors driving PhD student success and evaluate student selection procedures.
- To determine the influence of research environment, supervisor experience, and scholarships on PhD outcomes.
- To assess the relationship between previous academic achievements and PhD success.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of PhD student outcomes, including publications, citations, journal impact factors, and attrition rates.
- Comparison of outcomes based on research environment (priority areas vs. others) and supervisor experience.
- Evaluation of the impact of scholarships on student productivity and retention.
Main Results:
- Students in priority research areas with experienced supervisors achieved significantly better outcomes (publications, citations, impact factor) and lower attrition.
- Previous academic performance and research training were unrelated to PhD outcomes.
- Scholarship recipients produced more publications in higher-impact journals, received more citations, and had lower withdrawal rates.
Conclusions:
- Experienced supervisors and priority research areas significantly enhance PhD student productivity and success.
- The findings challenge the sole reliance on academic merit for PhD scholarships, suggesting a need for broader criteria.
- Investing in research infrastructure and supervision is crucial for maximizing PhD student contributions to university standing.
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