José M. R. C. A. Santos, Carolina Varela, Melinda Fischer, Simon Kerridge
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
This study addresses the dearth of theoretical stances on the professional status of research managers and administrators (RMAs) based at higher education institutions and at other science-related organizations. Using the lens of 'narrative identities’ theory, it explores their professional identity in contemporary neoliberal research and innovation ecosystems. Through semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis, the study examines whether RMAs consistently articulate a distinct professional identity. Findings reveal that RMAs exhibit a strong sense of purpose, navigating dynamic professional trajectories influenced by both public management structures and personal motivations. Despite recognizing their unique expertise, RMAs face identity tensions that bridge academia and other professional spheres. The study highlights the growing need to professionalize RMAs and the potential for more formal recognition of their role.
期刊介绍：
Higher Education Policy is an international peer-reviewed and SSCI-indexed academic journal focusing on higher education policy in a broad sense. The journal considers submissions that discuss national and supra-national higher education policies and/or analyse their impacts on higher education institutions or the academic community: leadership, faculty, staff and students, but also considers papers that deal with governance and policy issues at the level of higher education institutions. Critical analyses, empirical investigations (either qualitative or quantitative), and theoretical-conceptual contributions are equally welcome, but for all submissions the requirement is that papers be embedded in the relevant academic literature and contribute to furthering our understanding of policy.
The journal has a preference for papers that are written from a disciplinary or interdisciplinary perspective. In the past, contributors have relied on perspectives from public administration, political science, sociology, history, economics and law, but also from philosophy, psychology and anthropology. Articles devoted to systems of higher education that are less well-known or less often analysed are particularly welcome.
Given the international scope of the journal, articles should be written for and be understood by an international audience, consisting of researchers in higher education, disciplinary researchers, and policy-makers, administrators, managers and practitioners in higher education. Contributions should not normally exceed 7,000 words (excluding references). Peer reviewAll submissions to the journal will undergo rigorous peer review (anonymous referees) after an initial editorial screening on quality and fit with the journal''s aims.Special issues
The journal welcomes proposals for special issues. The journal archive contains several examples of special issues. Such proposals, to be sent to the editor, should set out the theme of the special issue and include the names of the (proposed) contributors and summaries of the envisaged contributions. Forum section
Occasionally, the journal publishes contributions – in its Forum section – based on personal viewpoints and/or experiences with the intent to stimulate discussion and reflection, or to challenge established thinking in the field of higher education.
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