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To be, or not to be, part-time in academia
Sinead English1, M Emília Santos2, Clare Buckley3
1School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom.
Elife
|February 20, 2025
Summary
Part-time work offers significant advantages for academics and institutions, enhancing work-life balance and fostering diversity. This discussion explores strategies to promote and support flexible academic careers.
Area of Science:
- Academia
- Workforce Studies
- Sociology of Science
Background:
- Part-time employment is increasingly recognized for its potential benefits within academic settings.
- Challenges exist in implementing and supporting flexible work arrangements in academia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the multifaceted benefits of part-time working for individual academics and the academic community.
- To identify actionable strategies for promoting and supporting part-time roles in academia.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative insights from six researchers with experience in part-time academic roles.
- Discussion of best practices and recommendations for stakeholders.
Main Results:
- Part-time work improves work-life balance, well-being, and motivation.
- It contributes to reduced burnout and fosters more diverse and inclusive academic workplaces.
- Recommendations are provided for individuals, employers, and funders.
Conclusions:
- Supporting part-time working is crucial for enhancing academic well-being and institutional inclusivity.
- Collaborative efforts from researchers, institutions, and funding bodies are essential for successful implementation.
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