Postdocs: Commercialization Important, But for Others

Post-doctoral researchers in the Washington, D.C. area recognize the importance of commercializing research, where scientific results can benefit the local economy, but most postdocs surveyed have little interest in running their own business once their research fellowship ends. That’s the finding of a study published in the current issue of the International Journal of Knowledge-Based Development (paid subscription required).

Edmund Zolnik, in the School of Public Policy at George Mason University in Arlington, Virginia conducted the survey of postdocs. Zolnik says respondents seemed to understand the key role they play in the overall technology transfer process, with the potential economic benefits for the region. But overall, says Zolnick, respondents exhibited very little interest in their own self-employment after completing their fellowships.

Of the few who respondents preparing for self-employment, the opportunity for initial wealth was a distinguishing factor. Housing affordability was a financial constraint for many study participants, but, as a group they expressed satisfaction with the economic and cultural diversity of the Washington, D.C. area as a place to settle permanently.

Zolnik suggests that educational courses and programs should be emphasized that give postdoctoral fellows insights into entrepreneurial career tracks and offer them the option to be mentored early in their transition from apprentice to entrepreneur.

Photo: Stephen Cummings/Flickr