The Brazilian Academy of Sciences (ABC) is carrying out research to map the profile of Brazilian scientists at the beginning and middle of their careers. The survey aims to identify the main challenges of a scientific career with a view to developing public policies for the sector. The study is carried out in partnership with the Brazilian Society for the Progress of Science (SBPC) and the Parent in Science group, in addition to having the support of the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq).
"Our idea was to formulate questions that would help to better define the profile of early-career researchers in Brazil, which culminated in the creation of this questionnaire. We intend to have elements to eventually subsidize research financing strategies and public sector initiatives in order to to encourage these researchers", explains Marcelo Mori, professor at the Biology Institute (IB) at Unicamp and affiliate member of ABC.
The questionnaire takes around 15 minutes to answer and has questions about access to research funding, institutional partnerships and support, social and diversity aspects and opportunities available to young researchers in Brazil. People who completed their doctorate from 2006 onwards and have a formal link with a public or private teaching and research institution in the country or abroad can participate. Participation is anonymous and voluntary and the data provided will be kept confidential and secure.
According to Mori, the initiative fills an important gap in the country's scientific field. "Much is said about brain drain, the need for investment in researchers at the beginning of their careers, but we don't know very well what the main bottlenecks and needs they face are. Therefore, this research is unique and important for our country manage to retain and encourage scientists at the beginning of their careers", he analyzes.
