"What could help make a difference? More supportive parental (not just
maternity) leave policies, affordable and accessible child care, and
flexible schedules that might allow for a half-time academic appointment
would help. And, what if there was a way to take time off to raise our
families, and still be able to get back into the field without having
written grants or published in a few years?"
I just wonder "Who will fill your position while you are absent from your
work? Who would teach classes, who would over see graduate students while
you are out? And, what is the future of those who temporary filled your
role?"
Those temporary positions have almost no job security, no health insurance,
retirement benefits, etc. Now, let's ask who are willing to take those
temporary positions? Most likely, eagerly fresh PhDs who are flexible in
their life (young single female and male) and who hopes that those
sacrifices would build a marketable carrier. If they are lucky, their
sacrifices will be rewarded when a permanent position opens. (Unfortunately,
not always. I know too many post-docs who can't get a permanent position.)
And, if the University can get by with those temps while permanent faculty
is out, then why not eliminate the permanent faculty position and convert it
to temp positions? This saves budget significantly. This is happening
everywhere. When you have more supplies than demands, this phenomenon is
bound to happen.
Toshihide "Hamachan" Hamazaki
