Research Reports from the Department of Operations

Authors

Burton V. Dean

Document Type

Report

Publication Date

1-1-1977

Abstract

This study investigates challenges faced by young scientists in academia, focusing on creativity loss in U.S. scientific endeavors and the National Science Foundation's (NSF) peer review process. Objectives include mapping education and career trajectories of Ph.D. scientists, analyzing age distribution, and examining factors influencing the supply, demand, and mobility of scientists. Key findings reveal a projected surplus of doctoral scientists, aging faculty demographics limiting innovation, and NSF-funded principal investigators being older and more senior than average. The peer review process is seen as unfavorable to innovative proposals from young scientists, with institutional and individual barriers reducing their NSF submissions. Recommendations include experimental funding for young researchers through targeted grants and programs, modifications to the peer review process to enhance inclusivity, and faster proposal evaluations. These changes aim to support early-career scientists and foster a more dynamic and creative scientific workforce.

Keywords

Operations research, Science--Research--United States, Peer review--United States, National Science Foundation (U.S.), Educational attainment--United States

Publication Title

Technical Memorandums from the Department of Operations, School of Management, Case Western Reserve University

Issue

Technical memorandum no. 420

Rights

This work is in the public domain and may be freely downloaded for personal or academic use

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