COVID-19 and the academy: opinions and experiences of university-based scientists in the U.S

Timothy P. Johnson (), Mary K. Feeney (), Heyjie Jung, Ashlee Frandell, Mattia Caldarulo, Lesley Michalegko, Shaika Islam and Eric W. Welch ()
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Timothy P. Johnson: University of Illinois at Chicago
Mary K. Feeney: Arizona State University
Heyjie Jung: Arizona State University
Ashlee Frandell: Arizona State University
Mattia Caldarulo: Arizona State University
Lesley Michalegko: Arizona State University
Shaika Islam: Arizona State University
Eric W. Welch: Arizona State University

Palgrave Communications, 2021, vol. 8, issue 1, 1-7

Abstract: Abstract Much of the available evidence regarding COVID-19 effects on the scientific community in the U.S. is anecdotal and non-representative. We report findings from a based survey of university-based biologists, biochemists, and civil and environmental engineers regarding negative and positive COVID-19 impacts, respondent contributions to addressing the pandemic, and their opinions regarding COVID-19 research policies. The most common negative impact was university closures, cited by 93% of all scientists. Significant subgroup differences emerged, with higher proportions of women, assistant professors, and scientists at institutions located in COVID-19 “hotspot” counties reporting difficulties concentrating on research. Assistant professors additionally reported facing more unanticipated childcare responsibilities. Approximately half of the sample also reported one or more positive COVID-19 impacts, suggesting the importance of developing a better understanding of the complete range of impacts across all fields of science. Regarding COVID-19 relevant public policy, findings suggest divergence of opinion concerning surveillance technologies and the need to alter federal approval processes for new tests and vaccines.

Date: 2021
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DOI: 10.1057/s41599-021-00823-9

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