Why New Research Administrators Quit in the First Year
Research administration is a complex and demanding field. It requires a wide range of skills and knowledge, and it can be difficult to find the right person for the job. As a result, it is not uncommon for new research administrators to quit in the first year.
There are a number of reasons why new research administrators might quit their jobs. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Lack of training and support. New research administrators often lack the training and support they need to succeed in their roles. They may not have the skills or knowledge they need to manage budgets, track effort, and ensure compliance with regulations. They may also not have the support they need from their supervisors or colleagues.
- Unrealistic expectations. New research administrators may have unrealistic expectations about their jobs. They may think that they will be able to make a significant impact right away, or they may think that they will have more autonomy than they actually do. When these expectations are not met, it can lead to disappointment and frustration.
- Work-life imbalance. Research administration can be a very demanding job. It often requires long hours and irregular work schedules. This can make it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
- Lack of diversity and inclusion. Some research environments are not welcoming or supportive of people from different backgrounds. This can make it difficult for new research administrators to feel like they belong.
If you are a new research administrator, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of success. First, make sure you have the training and support you need. Talk to your supervisor about your needs and ask for help from your colleagues. Second, set realistic expectations for yourself. Remember that it takes time to learn the ropes and make a significant impact. Finally, be mindful of your work-life balance. Make sure you take time for yourself and your loved ones.
If you're thinking about quitting your job as a research administrator, it's important to talk to your supervisor first. They may be able to help you address the issues that are causing you to consider leaving. If you've already made the decision to quit, be sure to give your supervisor plenty of notice. This will give them time to find a replacement and ensure a smooth transition.
It's important to remember that you are not alone. Many new research administrators quit their jobs in the first year. If you are struggling, don't be afraid to reach out for help. There are resources available to help you succeed in your career.
If you have made it this far into the article, you will be interested to learn this entire article was written with a short prompt into Artificial Intelligence (AI). As AI continues to advance, we consider how will AI interact with Research Administration? Are our jobs on the line in the future? How will this impact principal investigators as they need to write their science? How original will our articles be in the future at SRAI? I have none of these answers but, in the meantime, be careful what you read. AI has been let loose on the general population with no regulations or rules in place for its use.
Authored by Sabrina Heisey, Program Manager, Psychiatry Research
Boston Children’s Hospital
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