Career paths in science: Equal opportunities survey started!

Career paths in science: Equal opportunities survey started!

On September 26, 2025, the Ruhr University Alliance launched a comprehensive survey on career paths in science. news.rub.de reports that this survey is aimed specifically at doctoral students and people working in academic research up to professorships. The aim is to better understand the factors that promote and inhibit academic careers.

Participation is open to all doctoral candidates, regardless of their current employment. This also includes those who work at other universities or in business. The survey takes place online and takes around 20 minutes. Those interested have until November 9, 2025 to participate.

Focus of the survey

A particular focus is on the experiences and framework conditions in science. Prof. Dr. Isolde Karle, who leads the initiative, emphasizes how important it is to make career paths visible and improve equal opportunities. Participants are asked about their career prospects, their working environment and the support offers they receive.

This survey is part of the “Diversity and Career Paths” project, which is funded by the Mercator Research Center Ruhr. The survey was designed in cooperation with the three universities of the Ruhr University Alliance and is implemented by the Center for University Quality Development (ZHQE) at the University of Duisburg-Essen. If you have any questions, you can contact Anna Ebert and Thomas Hoss.

Career development in science

Scientists face specific challenges and requirements. According to one academics.de According to the report, both perseverance and self-discipline are crucial for a successful career in science. Qualities such as intrinsic motivation and enthusiasm for scientific work are essential.

• Wichtige Voraussetzungen für den Erfolg in der Wissenschaft sind:
• Ausdauer und Hartnäckigkeit
• Fähigkeit zum selbstständigen Arbeiten
• Vernetzungs- und Kommunikationsfähigkeit
• Frustrationstoleranz

A high level of work effort and the regular publication of research results are crucial for staying in science. Openness and flexibility are also necessary, as a change of location is often necessary after completing your doctorate. Studies show that a nomadic life is not uncommon in academia, while other sectors offer more stability.

Institutional support

The German Research Foundation (DFG) plays a crucial role in supporting young scientists. As the largest research funding organization in Germany, the DFG has anchored early support for scientific careers as a central goal. It not only enables the financing of research projects, but also ensures that people and projects are assessed transparently.

The DFG has developed principles to support scientists in early career phases. These are intended to serve as orientation and include the need to create appropriate care conditions. This includes regular feedback discussions and mentoring programs to promote individual career development.

In addition, it is important to ensure balanced support and ownership. Universities are required to create a simple and transparent framework for supporting their scientists. Good supervision, which is currently often perceived as not structured enough, is crucial for sustainable career paths in research.

This survey initiative could be instrumental in increasing understanding of how career paths in science can be made more successful.