Postdoctoral researchers' academic identity construction and career development at universities in mainland China

Abstract

Postdoctoral training in China has experienced rapid growth since its inception in the 1980s, currently ranking second globally after the United States in terms of postdoctoral researcher numbers. While there has been substantial attention given to examining the institutional structures and policies surrounding postdoctoral system in China, fewer studies have focused directly on understanding the unique experiences and challenges faced by postdoctoral researchers themselves. This qualitative study aims to examine the postdoctoral experience by exploring identity construction, shedding light on the strategies employed by postdoctoral researchers as they navigate their academic paths. The research involved a purposive sample of 52 postdoctoral researchers with diverse areas of expertise who were enrolled in postdoctoral research programs at 11 universities across 5 cities in China. The study employed a combination of narrative inquiry and visual methods during in-depth interviews to gather data. The analysis and interpretation of the data were guided by integrating identity theories. Through the process of transcribing, reconstructing, and revisiting the narratives provided by each participant, along with data obtained from document analysis, the study yielded important findings, which are outlined below. Most respondents view their postdoctoral positions as a career move, emphasizing research dedication and future academic advancement. However, variations exist based on intrinsic and extrinsic motivations and individuals’ understanding of their role and identity. The study highlights the influence of postdoctoral researchers’ understanding of working activities on their present and future career actions. It emphasizes the importance of research, teaching, and networking in constructing their academic identity. The research also delves into the impact of the policy and institutional environment on their academic growth, including policies, censorship mechanisms, and variations in institutional support. The study sheds light on the career and employment guidance received by postdoctoral researchers, noting both strengths and areas for improvement. While guidance regarding future career prospects is provided by supervisors and universities, there are concerns about the lack of guarantee and explicit conditions for career advancement. Policy changes within universities can affect the viability of certain career paths, making it challenging for postdoctoral researchers to plan effectively. This thesis provides a comprehensive understanding of postdoctoral researchers’ identities and their career prospects in Chinese research-intensive universities. The findings emphasize the complexity of their experiences and the need for individualized support during their transition and career development. The research contributes to the existing knowledge in this field and offers recommendations for future research and institutional practices.