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Big Problems with Scientific Research

 

11 Nov 2024

 

Research done with the assistance of Preview-o1

 

 

 

Is there a problem with science research today, and how big is it?

 

Big Science Research Issues

 

Yes, there are several significant challenges facing scientific research today, which collectively impact the integrity, efficiency, and progress of science. While remarkable advancements continue across various fields, these problems can hinder scientific discovery and erode public trust. Here's an overview of the key issues:

 

1. Reproducibility Crisis

 

- Description: A substantial number of scientific studies, especially in psychology and biomedical research, have been difficult or impossible to replicate.

- Implications: This raises concerns about the reliability of published findings and can slow scientific progress.

- Contributing Factors: Small sample sizes, selective reporting, lack of transparency in methodologies, and statistical errors.

 

2. Publication Pressure and 'Publish or Perish' Culture

 

- Description: Researchers often face intense pressure to publish frequently to secure funding, promotions, and tenure positions.

- Implications: This can lead to prioritizing quantity over quality, potentially encouraging questionable research practices like p-hacking or data dredging.

- Contributing Factors: Academic incentives that reward high publication rates and journals favoring positive or novel results.

 

3. Funding Constraints and Biases

 

- Description: Limited funding resources lead to fierce competition among researchers.

- Implications: Innovative or high-risk projects may struggle to receive funding, and researchers might tailor their proposals to fit funding trends rather than scientific merit.

- Contributing Factors: Preference for established fields, bias towards projects with immediate applications, and underfunding of fundamental research.

 

4. Lack of Diversity and Inclusion

 

- Description: Underrepresentation of women, minorities, and scientists from developing countries persists in many scientific fields.

- Implications: A less diverse research community can limit perspectives, reduce creativity, and overlook issues pertinent to underrepresented groups.

- Contributing Factors: Systemic biases, unequal access to education, and socio-economic barriers.

 

5. Misaligned Incentive Structures

 

- Description: Current metrics for success often emphasize citations, journal impact factors, and grant acquisition.

- Implications: These metrics may not accurately reflect the quality or societal impact of research, potentially discouraging collaborative and interdisciplinary work.

- Contributing Factors: Institutional policies, evaluation criteria for career advancement, and funding agency priorities.

 

6. Data Transparency and Open Science

 

- Description: Not all researchers share their data, methodologies, or results openly.

- Implications: This lack of transparency can impede replication efforts and slow down the verification of results.

- Contributing Factors: Intellectual property concerns, fear of being scooped, and lack of standardized data-sharing practices.

 

7. Ethical Concerns

 

- Description: Advances in areas like genetics, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology raise complex ethical questions.

- Implications: Without proper oversight, research could infringe on privacy, consent, or lead to unintended harmful applications.

- Contributing Factors: Rapid technological progress outpacing regulatory frameworks, and varying ethical standards across regions.

 

8. Misinformation and Public Trust

 

- Description: The spread of misinformation can undermine public confidence in scientific findings.

- Implications: Reduced trust can lead to resistance against scientifically informed policies and decreased support for research funding.

- Contributing Factors: Poor science communication, sensationalism in media, and the proliferation of unverified information online.

 

9. Global Disparities in Research Capacity

 

- Description: There's an imbalance in research infrastructure and resources between developed and developing countries.

- Implications: Challenges in addressing global issues like pandemics or climate change effectively, as not all perspectives are adequately represented.

- Contributing Factors: Economic disparities, brain drain, and limited access to education and technology.

 

How Big Is the Problem?

 

The magnitude of these issues is substantial and has prompted concern within the global scientific community. For instance:

 

- Reproducibility: Studies have shown that only about 40% of psychology experiments and one-third of medical studies replicate successfully.

- Publication Pressure: The surge in the number of publications has not necessarily correlated with significant scientific breakthroughs.

- Funding Issues: Success rates for grant applications can be below 20%, leading to substantial amounts of time spent on grant writing rather than research.

 

Efforts to Address the Challenges

 

Despite these problems, concerted efforts are underway to mitigate them:

 

- Promoting Open Science: Initiatives to encourage data sharing, open-access publishing, and transparency in research practices.

- Reforming Incentive Systems: Moving towards evaluation metrics that value quality over quantity, including societal impact and reproducibility.

- Enhancing Diversity: Programs aimed at increasing participation from underrepresented groups through scholarships, mentorships, and policy changes.

- Strengthening Ethical Standards: Developing guidelines and regulatory frameworks to address emerging ethical issues proactively.

- Improving Science Communication: Engaging with the public through outreach, education, and transparent communication to build trust.

 

Conclusion

 

While the challenges facing scientific research today are significant, they are recognized and actively being addressed by researchers, institutions, and policymakers. Continued efforts to reform research practices, funding models, and incentive structures are crucial for advancing science effectively and maintaining public trust.

 

Are there many trained scientists or aspirant scientists that lack access to further their education or being able engage in research, due to barriers?

 

Barriers

 

Yes, many trained scientists and aspiring scientists face significant barriers that prevent them from furthering their education or engaging in research. These obstacles can vary widely depending on geographical location, socioeconomic status, institutional support, and personal circumstances. Here are some of the main barriers:

 

1. Financial Constraints

 

- Tuition and Fees: Advanced degrees and specialized training programs often come with high costs that are unaffordable for many.

- Research Funding: Securing funding for research projects is highly competitive, and early-career scientists may struggle to obtain grants.

- Living Expenses: The cost of living in areas with leading research institutions can be prohibitive, especially without adequate stipends or scholarships.

 

2. Limited Access to Resources

 

- Infrastructure: In some regions, especially in developing countries, there is a lack of modern laboratories, equipment, and technology necessary for cutting-edge research.

- Educational Opportunities: Limited availability of quality educational institutions can restrict access to advanced scientific training.

 

3. Geographical Barriers

 

- Remote Locations: Scientists in rural or remote areas may have difficulty accessing educational programs and research opportunities that are typically concentrated in urban centers.

- International Mobility: Visa restrictions, immigration policies, and travel costs can impede scientists from studying or working abroad.

 

4. Discrimination and Bias

 

- Underrepresentation: Women, ethnic minorities, and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often face systemic biases that limit their opportunities in science.

- Cultural Barriers: Social norms and expectations in certain societies may discourage or prevent individuals, particularly women, from pursuing scientific careers.

 

5. Language Barriers

 

- Communication: Science is predominantly communicated in English, which can be a barrier for non-English speakers in accessing literature, publishing research, or participating in international collaborations.

 

6. Institutional Limitations

 

- Limited Positions: There is often a scarcity of academic and research positions, leading to intense competition and underemployment.

- Administrative Hurdles: Bureaucratic processes and lack of institutional support can impede research progress.

 

7. Lack of Mentorship and Networking

 

- Guidance: Access to experienced mentors is crucial for career development, but not all aspiring scientists have this support.

- Professional Networks: Networking can open doors to opportunities, but building these networks is challenging without institutional support or resources.

 

8. Digital Divide

 

- Technology Access: Limited access to high-speed internet and digital tools can hinder participation in modern scientific research and online education.

- Information Access: Paywalls and subscription fees for scientific journals restrict access to current research findings.

 

9. Political and Social Instability

 

- Conflict Zones: Scientists in regions affected by war or political unrest may have their education disrupted and research facilities destroyed.

- Policy Changes: Shifts in government priorities can lead to reduced funding and support for certain areas of research.

 

10. Personal Obligations

 

- Family Responsibilities: Caring for family members or financial obligations can limit time and resources available for education and research.

- Work-Life Balance: The demanding nature of scientific careers can be a deterrent for those needing a more balanced lifestyle.

 

Efforts to Overcome Barriers

 

Various initiatives aim to reduce these obstacles:

 

- Scholarships and Grants: Financial aid targeted at underrepresented groups or those from low-income backgrounds.

- Online Education Platforms: Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and virtual conferences make education and networking more accessible.

- International Collaborations: Partnerships between institutions in different countries facilitate knowledge exchange and resource sharing.

- Mentorship Programs: Organizations that connect aspiring scientists with mentors to provide guidance and support.

- Policy Advocacy: Efforts to influence government policies to promote inclusivity and increased funding for science education and research.

 

Conclusion

 

The barriers preventing trained and aspiring scientists from advancing their careers are significant and multifaceted. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from governments, educational institutions, funding bodies, and the scientific community at large. By implementing supportive policies, increasing funding, promoting inclusivity, and leveraging technology to expand access, it is possible to reduce these barriers and enable more scientists to contribute to scientific advancement.

 

Are there figures of bright minds unable to make a contribution?

 

Bright Minds

 

Yes, there is substantial evidence that many talented individuals are unable to contribute to scientific research due to various barriers. While it's challenging to provide exact figures quantifying "bright minds" who are prevented from making contributions, numerous studies and statistics highlight the magnitude of this issue.

 

1. Educational Access and Attainment

 

- Global Education Gap: According to UNESCO, as of 2023, approximately 258 million children and youth are out of school globally. This lack of access to basic education disproportionately affects low-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, limiting the pool of future scientists from these regions.

 

- Higher Education Enrollment: The World Bank reports that gross enrollment ratios in tertiary education remain below 10% in low-income countries, compared to over 70% in high-income countries. This disparity suggests that many capable individuals lack opportunities for advanced scientific training.

 

2. Underrepresentation in STEM Fields

 

- Gender Disparities: UNESCO's "Women in Science" report indicates that women constitute only 30% of the world's researchers. In fields like physics, engineering, and computer science, the percentage of women is even lower, suggesting systemic barriers that prevent many talented women from contributing to science.

 

- Ethnic and Racial Minorities: In countries like the United States, data from the National Science Foundation shows that underrepresented minorities (including Black, Hispanic, and Native American populations) receive a disproportionately low percentage of science and engineering degrees relative to their share of the population.

 

3. Socioeconomic Barriers

 

- Income Inequality and Opportunity: A study published in the journal *Science* (Chetty et al., 2017) found that children from high-income families are much more likely to become inventors than those from low-income families, even when controlling for academic ability. This suggests that socioeconomic status significantly impacts one's ability to contribute to scientific innovation.

 

4. Brain Drain

 

- Migration of Talent: Many developing countries experience a "brain drain," where educated individuals emigrate to pursue better opportunities abroad. For example, the International Organization for Migration estimates that Africa loses over 20,000 professionals annually due to migration. While these individuals may contribute to science in their new countries, their potential impact on their home countries is diminished.

 

5. Conflict and Displacement

 

- Impact of War and Unrest: The United Nations reports that as of 2023, over 100 million people are forcibly displaced worldwide due to conflict, violence, or human rights violations. Displacement disrupts education and career paths, preventing many capable individuals from pursuing scientific careers.

 

6. Digital Divide

 

- Limited Internet Access: The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) estimates that around 2.9 billion people (about 37% of the global population) were still offline in 2021. Lack of internet access hinders the ability to access educational resources, scientific literature, and participate in global collaborations.

 

7. Disability Access

 

- Exclusion of Persons with Disabilities: The World Health Organization states that over 1 billion people live with some form of disability. Barriers in education and workplace accessibility mean that many potentially talented scientists with disabilities cannot contribute effectively.

 

Challenges in Quantifying the Exact Numbers

 

- Subjectivity of 'Bright Minds': Intelligence and potential are difficult to measure objectively, especially in populations lacking access to formal education or assessment tools.

 

- Data Limitations: Many countries do not collect detailed statistics on how many individuals are prevented from advancing in science due to barriers like poverty, discrimination, or lack of resources.

 

- Overlapping Barriers: Individuals often face multiple, intersecting barriers (e.g., a woman from a low-income background in a rural area), making it complex to isolate and quantify the impact of each factor.

 

Illustrative Figures

 

While exact numbers are elusive, the following statistics provide insight into the scale of the issue:

 

- Educational Disruption: UNICEF reports that approximately 1 in 5 school-aged children are not in school, which equates to millions of potential scientists whose education is interrupted or terminated.

 

- Underutilization of Talent: A study by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) suggests that around 27% of the global variance in students' science performance is explained by socioeconomic status, indicating that many capable students are underperforming due to external factors.

 

Conclusion

 

The barriers preventing talented individuals from contributing to science represent a significant loss to global scientific advancement and innovation. While precise figures are difficult to ascertain, the available data underscores the importance of addressing these obstacles. Efforts to improve access to education, reduce socioeconomic disparities, promote diversity and inclusion, and invest in underserved regions are crucial steps toward enabling more bright minds to participate in scientific research.

 

References

 

- Chetty, R., et al. (2017). *The Equality of Opportunity Project: Who Becomes an Inventor in America?* Harvard University.

- UNESCO Institute for Statistics. (2023). *Education Data Release*.

- National Science Foundation. (2021). *Women, Minorities, and Persons with Disabilities in Science and Engineering*.

- International Telecommunication Union. (2021). *Measuring Digital Development: Facts and Figures*.

- UNICEF. (2023). *Out-of-School Children*.

- OECD. (2019). *PISA 2018 Results*.

 

Moving Forward

 

Addressing these barriers requires global collaboration and sustained efforts, including:

 

- Policy Changes: Governments can implement policies that provide scholarships, improve educational infrastructure, and enforce anti-discrimination laws.

 

- International Aid and Collaboration: Developed countries and international organizations can support education and research initiatives in developing regions.

 

- Community Engagement: Local communities can advocate for better resources and support systems to nurture talent.

 

By taking these steps, the global community can help ensure that more talented individuals have the opportunity to contribute to scientific progress.

 

Online one gets to hear about the appalling experience doctoral students have in completing their thesis, and the disenfranchisement they endure going through that gauntlet, to the extent that many feel that their dream of doing science has been destroyed. I am interested in these gifted people who have so much to offer. Can you estimate some size based on research studies?

 

Research Studies

 

Yes, several research studies have highlighted that a significant number of doctoral students experience severe challenges during their PhD programs. These challenges often lead to disenfranchisement, mental health issues, and in some cases, the abandonment of their aspirations in science. Estimating the exact size of this problem is complex, but existing research provides substantial insights into its magnitude.

 

Mental Health Challenges Among Doctoral Students

 

- High Prevalence of Mental Health Issues: A study published in *Nature Biotechnology* in 2018 surveyed over 2,000 graduate students from 26 countries. It found that 41% of respondents showed signs of moderate to severe anxiety, and 39% exhibited signs of moderate to severe depression. These rates are significantly higher than those in the general population.

 

- Reference: Evans, T. M., et al. (2018). [Evidence for a mental health crisis in graduate education](https://www.nature.com/articles/nbt.4089). *Nature Biotechnology*, 36(3), 282–284.

 

- Comparison with General Population: The same study indicated that graduate students are six times more likely to experience depression and anxiety compared to the general population.

 

Doctoral Attrition Rates

 

- High Dropout Rates: In the United States, it's estimated that 40% to 50% of doctoral students leave their programs without completing their degrees. This attrition rate varies by field and institution but highlights a significant loss of potential scientific contributors.

 

- Reference: Council of Graduate Schools PhD Completion Project (2008). [PhD Completion and Attrition](http://www.phdcompletion.org/).

 

- Reasons for Attrition: Common factors include:

 

- Poor Supervision: Lack of support or negative relationships with advisors.

- Isolation: Feeling disconnected from the academic community.

- Financial Pressures: Insufficient funding leading to stress and the need to seek employment outside academia.

- Mental Health: Unaddressed mental health issues exacerbated by the pressures of doctoral studies.

 

Negative Experiences and Disenfranchisement

 

- Disillusionment with Academia: A 2019 survey by *Nature* involving over 6,300 PhD students worldwide found that:

 

- 76% worked more than 40 hours per week.

- 36% sought help for anxiety or depression related to their PhD studies.

- Many reported poor work-life balance and uncertainty about career prospects.

 

- Reference: Woolston, C. (2019). [PhD poll reveals fear and joy, contentment and anguish](https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-019-03459-7). *Nature*, 575, 403–406.

 

- Bullying and Harassment: A study in *Research Policy* reported that 49% of PhD students experienced at least one instance of bullying or harassment during their doctoral program.

 

- Reference: Levecque, K., et al. (2017). [Work organization and mental health problems in PhD students](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.respol.2017.02.008). *Research Policy*, 46(4), 868–879.

 

Impact on Scientific Careers

 

- Loss of Talent: The high rates of mental health issues and attrition represent a significant loss of gifted individuals who could have contributed valuable insights and innovations to their fields.

 

- Career Abandonment: Many doctoral students leave academia altogether due to negative experiences, which can include:

 

- Feeling that their passion for science has been diminished.

- A lack of confidence in their abilities due to unsupportive environments.

- Burnout from excessive workloads and stress.

 

Estimated Size Based on Research Studies

 

- Global Doctoral Student Population: According to UNESCO, there were approximately 8 million doctoral students worldwide in 2020.

 

- Applying Research Findings:

 

- Mental Health Issues: If 41% experience anxiety or depression, that equates to about 3.28 million doctoral students globally facing significant mental health challenges.

 

- Attrition: With an attrition rate of up to 50%, as many as 4 million students may not complete their doctoral programs, many due to negative experiences that erode their passion for science.

 

- Disenfranchisement:

 

- While exact figures on disenfranchisement are harder to quantify, the high rates of mental health issues, negative experiences, and attrition suggest that a substantial portion of doctoral students feel their dreams of doing science have been compromised.

 

Factors Contributing to Negative Experiences

 

- Academic Culture: Competitive environments, publish-or-perish pressures, and lack of work-life balance contribute to stress.

 

- Supervisory Relationships: The quality of mentorship varies widely, and poor supervision can lead to feelings of isolation and inadequacy.

 

- Financial Insecurity: Inadequate funding and the need to take on additional work can add to stress levels.

 

- Job Market Uncertainty: Limited academic positions and the pressure to secure funding can make future career prospects seem bleak.

 

Efforts to Address the Problem

 

- Mental Health Support: Institutions are increasingly recognizing the need for mental health resources tailored to graduate students.

 

- Mentorship Training: Programs aimed at improving the supervisory skills of faculty members.

 

- Policy Changes: Implementing policies that promote work-life balance, reasonable workloads, and transparent expectations.

 

- Career Development: Providing resources for alternative career paths outside academia to reduce anxiety about future employment.

 

Conclusion

 

Research studies indicate that a significant number of doctoral students face challenges severe enough to derail their scientific careers and aspirations. While it's difficult to provide an exact number, the available data suggests:

 

- Approximately 40% experience mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

- Up to 50% may leave their doctoral programs before completion.

- A substantial proportion feel disenfranchised or that their passion for science has been destroyed.

 

References

 

1. Evans, T. M., et al. (2018). Evidence for a mental health crisis in graduate education. *Nature Biotechnology*, 36(3), 282–284. [Link](https://www.nature.com/articles/nbt.4089)

 

2. Council of Graduate Schools PhD Completion Project (2008). PhD Completion and Attrition: Analysis of Baseline Program Data. [Link](http://www.phdcompletion.org/)

 

3. Woolston, C. (2019). PhD poll reveals fear and joy, contentment and anguish. *Nature*, 575, 403–406. [Link](https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-019-03459-7)

 

4. Levecque, K., et al. (2017). Work organization and mental health problems in PhD students. *Research Policy*, 46(4), 868–879. [Link](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.respol.2017.02.008)

 

5. UNESCO Institute for Statistics (2020). Global Number of Doctoral Students. [Link](http://uis.unesco.org/)

 

Moving Forward

 

Addressing this issue is crucial for retaining talented individuals in science:

 

- Institutional Responsibility: Universities and research institutions should prioritize the well-being of doctoral students by providing adequate support services.

 

- Mentorship and Supervision: Training for advisors to foster positive and supportive relationships with students.

 

- Community Building: Encouraging collaborative rather than competitive environments to reduce isolation.

 

- Transparency: Clear communication about program expectations, requirements, and realistic career prospects.

 

By implementing these measures, the scientific community can help ensure that gifted individuals are supported in their endeavors, reducing disenfranchisement and promoting a healthier, more productive academic environment.

 

Lastly what communities or groups are there that have access to these disenfranchised scientists? can you give contact details?

 

Certainly! There are numerous organizations and communities dedicated to supporting scientists who feel disenfranchised, including doctoral students and early-career researchers facing significant challenges. These groups offer resources such as mentorship, networking opportunities, advocacy, mental health support, and career development assistance. Below is a list of such organizations along with their contact details.

 

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1. Scholars at Risk (SAR)

 

- Description: An international network protecting scholars and promoting academic freedom.

- Activities: Provides sanctuary and assistance to threatened scholars, conducts advocacy, and organizes events.

- Contact Details:

- Website: [scholarsatrisk.org](https://www.scholarsatrisk.org)

- Email: [scholarsatrisk@nyu.edu](mailto:scholarsatrisk@nyu.edu)

- Phone: +1 (212) 998-2179

 

2. PhD Balance

 

- Description: A community focused on improving mental health among graduate students.

- Activities: Shares personal stories, offers resources, and fosters an online support network.

- Contact Details:

- Website: [phdbalance.com](https://www.phdbalance.com)

- Email: [hello@phdbalance.com](mailto:hello@phdbalance.com)

- Social Media: Active on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

 

3. Future of Research

 

- Description: Advocates for systemic changes to improve the scientific research environment.

- Activities: Conducts surveys, publishes reports, and organizes workshops.

- Contact Details:

- Website: [futureofresearch.org](http://futureofresearch.org)

- Email: [info@futureofresearch.org](mailto:info@futureofresearch.org)

 

4. National Postdoctoral Association (NPA)

 

- Description: Supports postdoctoral scholars in the U.S. through advocacy and resources.

- Activities: Provides career development resources, promotes policies, and hosts events.

- Contact Details:

- Website: [nationalpostdoc.org](https://www.nationalpostdoc.org)

- Email: [contact@nationalpostdoc.org](mailto:contact@nationalpostdoc.org)

- Phone: +1 (202) 326-6424

 

5. Rescuing Biomedical Research

 

- Description: Works to address systemic issues in biomedical research.

- Activities: Policy advocacy, research publications, and community engagement.

- Contact Details:

- Website: [rescuingbiomedicalresearch.org](http://rescuingbiomedicalresearch.org)

- Email: [contact@rescuingbiomedicalresearch.org](mailto:contact@rescuingbiomedicalresearch.org)

 

6. National Center for Faculty Development & Diversity (NCFDD)

 

- Description: Provides professional development and mentoring for academics.

- Activities: Offers webinars, coaching, and writing retreats.

- Contact Details:

- Website: [facultydiversity.org](https://www.facultydiversity.org)

- Email: [Membership@FacultyDiversity.org](mailto:Membership@FacultyDiversity.org)

- Phone: +1 (313) 347-8485

 

7. The International Consortium of Research Staff Associations (ICoRSA)

 

- Description: Supports research staff worldwide through advocacy and networking.

- Activities: Policy development, sharing best practices, and international collaboration.

- Contact Details:

- Website: [icorsa.org](https://icorsa.org)

- Email: [contact@icorsa.org](mailto:contact@icorsa.org)

 

8. Marie Curie Alumni Association (MCAA)

 

- Description: A global network for researchers who have benefited from European Commission funding.

- Activities: Networking events, career development, and collaborative projects.

- Contact Details:

- Website: [mariecuriealumni.eu](https://www.mariecuriealumni.eu)

- Email: [contact@mariecuriealumni.eu](mailto:contact@mariecuriealumni.eu)

 

9. Association for Women in Science (AWIS)

 

- Description: Advocates for gender equity in STEM fields.

- Activities: Mentoring, professional development, and policy advocacy.

- Contact Details:

- Website: [awis.org](https://www.awis.org)

- Email: [awis@awis.org](mailto:awis@awis.org)

- Phone: +1 (202) 588-8175

 

10. Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS)

 

- Description: Supports the success of underrepresented groups in STEM.

- Activities: Conferences, mentorship programs, and community outreach.

- Contact Details:

- Website: [sacnas.org](https://www.sacnas.org)

- Email: [info@sacnas.org](mailto:info@sacnas.org)

- Phone: +1 (831) 459-0170

 

11. Black in STEM Networks

 

- Description: Communities supporting Black scientists across various disciplines.

- Examples:

- Black in Neuro: [blackinneuro.com](https://blackinneuro.com)

- Email: [blackinneuro@gmail.com](mailto:blackinneuro@gmail.com)

- Black Women in Science and Engineering (BWISE): [bwiseusa.org](https://www.bwiseusa.org)

- Email: [info@bwiseusa.org](mailto:info@bwiseusa.org)

 

12. DisabledInSTEM

 

- Description: Advocates for scientists with disabilities.

- Activities: Community building, resource sharing, and awareness campaigns.

- Contact Details:

- Twitter: [@DisabledInSTEM](https://twitter.com/DisabledInSTEM)

- Email: Often provided via direct messaging on social media platforms.

 

13. Academic Mental Health Collective

 

- Description: Focuses on improving mental health in academia.

- Activities: Provides resources, shares stories, and promotes best practices.

- Contact Details:

- Website: [academicmentalhealthcollective.org](https://academicmentalhealthcollective.org)

- Email: [contact@academicmentalhealthcollective.org](mailto:contact@academicmentalhealthcollective.org)

 

14. Graduate Student Associations and Unions

 

- Description: Many universities have organizations that advocate for graduate students' rights and well-being.

- Activities: Negotiating for better working conditions, providing support services, and organizing events.

- Contact Details:

- Varies by Institution: Check your university's website or student services department.

 

15. Online Communities and Forums

 

- Description: Platforms where scientists share experiences, advice, and support.

- Examples:

- Reddit Communities:

- r/PhD: [reddit.com/r/PhD](https://www.reddit.com/r/PhD/)

- r/GradSchool: [reddit.com/r/GradSchool](https://www.reddit.com/r/GradSchool/)

- ResearchGate and Academia.edu: Networking sites for researchers.

- Twitter Hashtags: #AcademicTwitter, #PhDChat, #ECRchat (Early Career Researchers).

 

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Note: When reaching out, it's important to respect each organization's communication preferences and privacy policies. Websites typically have the most current contact information and details about how to get involved or seek assistance.

 

Additional Resources

 

- Mental Health Services: If mental health is a concern, consider reaching out to professional services, such as:

- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): [nami.org](https://www.nami.org) | HelpLine: +1 (800) 950-NAMI (6264)

- University Counseling Centers: Most institutions offer free or low-cost services to students and staff.

 

- Career Counseling: For guidance on career paths inside or outside academia:

- Versatile PhD: [versatilephd.com](https://versatilephd.com)

- ImaginePhD: [imaginephd.com](https://www.imaginephd.com)

 

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How to Engage

 

- Join Memberships: Some organizations offer free or low-cost memberships that provide access to resources and networks.

- Attend Events: Participate in webinars, workshops, and conferences to connect with peers and professionals.

- Volunteer or Contribute: Getting involved can enhance your network and help others facing similar challenges.

- Utilize Online Platforms: Engage in discussions, ask questions, and share your experiences to build supportive relationships.

 

Conclusion

 

These organizations and communities are instrumental in providing support to scientists who feel marginalized or disillusioned with the traditional academic path. By connecting with them, you can find mentorship, resources, and a community that understands and addresses the unique challenges faced by disenfranchised scientists. Remember, you're not alone, and there are many avenues to continue contributing your valuable skills and insights to the scientific community.

 

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Other Resources

 

A snapshot of the academic research culture in 2023-And how it might be improved

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8165704

 

 

Sabine Hossenfelder

https://www.youtube.com/@SabineHossenfelder

 

The crisis in physics is real: Science is failing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQVF0Yu7X24&pp=ygUec2ltaWxhciB0byBzYWJpbmUgaG9zc2VuZmVsZGVy

 

 

Self-Censorship

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRWMGlK24Hc&pp=ygUec2ltaWxhciB0byBzYWJpbmUgaG9zc2VuZmVsZGVy

 

 

MIT PHD in the mountains now

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=25LUF8GmbFU&pp=ygUNY3Jpc2lzIGluIHBoZA%3D%3D

 

 

Bad Supervision

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMNw70Kgw6w

 

 

Reasons why PHD’s don’t finish

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnFNJEmmDXI

 

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