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What researchers think about the culture they work in

More than 4000 researchers took part in a survey into experiences of research culture. The resulting report reveals concerns on competition, bullying and harassment, and mental health issues:

  • 78% of researchers think that high levels of competition have created unkind and aggressive conditions.
  • Nearly two-thirds of researchers (61%) have witnessed bullying or harassment, and 43% have experienced it themselves. Most common this was related to gender discrimination. Just one in three (37%) feel comfortable speaking up without fear of negative personal consequences, with many doubting appropriate action will be taken.
  • Just over half of researchers (53%) have sought, or have wanted to seek, professional help for depression or anxiety.

For other key findings and to download the full report please visit: https://wellcome.ac.uk/reports/what-researchers-think-about-research-culture
or read the related news item in Nature here.

Wellcome culture report