Working Under Pressure: Empirical Findings on the Challenges Facing PhD Students in Chemistry

Abstract

This study examines well-being, supervision quality, work-related conflicts, workload, and financing among PhD students in chemistry, drawing on a nationwide survey in Germany (N = 722). The data reveals considerable challenges across all domains of the survey: 61% had considered discontinuing their PhD, citing mental health issues, poor supervision, and high workloads. Satisfaction with supervision correlated strongly with feedback quality, leadership, and communication skills (r = .72–.78, p <.001), highlighting the central role of supervisory practices in PhD students’ well-being. Over half reported working more than 45 h per week, and one-fifth could not cover living expenses with their income, pointing to structural mismatches between workload expectations and financial support. Reports of discrimination, power abuse, and inadequate career support further highlight systemic shortcomings in PhD training environments. These findings emphasize the need for structural reforms in PhD education and research environments to support well-being and sustain the future research workforce.