Dealing with precarity as an ECR: Practical advice to navigate academic transitions

ZOOM EVENT: THURSDAY, 22 JANUARY 2026, 18:00 – 19:30 CET

Early Career Researchers (ECRs) often face significant uncertainty as they navigate multiple transitions from doctoral studies to academic careers. This online event creates space for an open and honest conversation about both the structural challenges and lived experiences of researchers in the early stages of their careers.

The panel brings together speakers at different career stages, including post-doctoral researchers, tenure-track scholars, and policy professionals pursuing research careers in think tanks, thus offering diverse perspectives on post-degree career pathways. Introductory statements by the panelists will be followed by an interactive exchange driven by participants’ questions. Discussion themes may include job insecurity, work-life balance, and strategies for professional growth.

The event is organized by the European International Studies Association (EISA) Early Career Development Group (ECD). The ECD group was established as part of EISA’s broader professional development activities for early career researchers and regularly organises events aimed at fostering networking and information sharing among ECRs. You can follow ECD activities on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecd-group-eisa/) and Bluesky (@ecdeisa.bsky.social).

Speakers

• Sara Berlotto, PhD, Italy China Council Foundation
• Ashlyn Hand, PhD, Southern Methodist University
• Huanyu Zhao, PhD, University of Ghent
• Silke Zoller, PhD, Kennesaw State University