Mikko TuomiDec 22, 2022

Modern #academia in a short conversation.

#science #university #research

University: "We would like to have you join our team of world-class scientists to conduct your fantastic science in our environment."

Researcher: "Great, so how much are you going to pay me?"

University: "Oh, about that. We expect you to apply for your own external funding."

Show threadMikko TuomiDec 22, 2022

Researcher: "So if I get my own funding from elsewhere, at least you won't expect me to teach then, right?"

University: "Well, not exactly, you have to teach, all researchers have to. It's part of the job."

Researcher: "And you'll provide research equipment according to my needs."

University: "Yes, of course. We can provide some equipment if you apply for it and are deemed a successful applicant according to our criteria for excellence."

Show threadMikko TuomiDec 22, 2022

Researcher: "Okay, but I can spend the money I get from elsewhere as I see fit, right?"

University: "Nope. You have to give us half of it. You see, there are expenses."

Researchers: "Yes, of course there are expenses. You will provide me a nice office anyway."

University: "Actually, we sold our infrastructure to private investors and cannot afford to rent an office for everyone. But we are very flexible and you can work from home."

Show threadTero Keski-ValkamaDec 22, 2022
@mustapipa, why do people accept those terms, why not just research and publish independently?
Show threadSam Levine
@tero @mustapipa That solution might work for someone outside the sciences or not an experimentalist, but take my field: I can't buy supplies or equipment unless I'm affiliated with a university or legitimate research corporation. I certainly can't safely conduct research outside of appropriate lab spaces. Others cannot apply for time on instruments without university backing. Random members of the public just cannot do advanced experimental research for both safety and gatekeeping reasons.
Dec 26, 2022 at 3:28pmWeb
Show threadTero Keski-ValkamaDec 26, 2022
@SRLevine @mustapipa, that makes sense. Universities shouldn't be privately owned or for profit. Such an important pillar of society must be answerable to the public and to the researchers in academia, and exist for their benefit.
Show threadMikko TuomiDec 26, 2022
@tero @SRLevine Absolutely spot on conclusion.