The 21st century researcher

In the context of a university a researcher is someone who undertakes a research project and then produces an output(s) for sharing with their wider community. This research might be done as part of an academic qualification such as a PhD, for a specific research project or in their role as someone who conducts research full time. A typical route for a researcher pursuing an academic career is illustrated below: 

Changes to the research landscape in the 21st century have caused a number of challenges for the modern researcher. As with many other sectors, competition for roles is fierce and there are fewer academic jobs available. At the same time the number of people with PhD level qualifications is rising. This means that researchers have to work even harder, publish even more and secure ever higher rankings to succeed in academic positions.  

If they want to pursue a career in academia it is likely that researchers will have to be increasingly mobile as they follow available jobs. They will also have to publish their work in the ‘right’ publications within their discipline, usually those with higher impact factors. Not doing so can make or break a researcher’s career. 

Many are now also moving to work in research support roles. They have knowledge and skills which can be useful in supporting others through the process but what does this mean for the future of academic librarians looking to work in this area?