An investigation into academic career pathways across Radiography education centres internationally

Area of Science:

• Radiologic Technology
• Higher Education
• Academic Medicine

Background:

• Robust academic pathways are essential for supporting radiography faculty in higher education.
• The growing research activity in Radiography necessitates academic opportunities aligned with professional needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate current academic career pathways for radiography educators globally.
• To identify challenges and benefits associated with academic careers in radiography.

Main Methods:

• An international online survey was administered to radiography academics and clinical/academic staff.
• Survey questions covered demographics, teaching/research requirements, promotion criteria, and equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) matters.

Main Results:

• 175 responses were received from 39 countries across 6 continents.
• While 31.4% held doctorates and 45.7% held master's degrees, a doctorate was not required for career progression for 72% of respondents.
• 60.6% of institutions reported having an EDI policy.

Conclusions:

• Significant heterogeneity exists in international radiography academic pathways, impacting standardized career opportunities.
• Differences in qualifications, promotion criteria, and institutional policies may challenge and discourage aspiring radiography academics.