Uncovering the Journey of Building a Community: A Story of a Global Network for Early- and Mid-Career Women Researchers

Abstract

In this chapter, we delve into our journey of establishing and nurturing a global network comprising early- and mid-career women researchers in the realm of doctoral education. Formed and sustained amid the backdrop of the pandemic since 2020, our endeavours of community building have acquired unique attributes, rewards and trials. We begin by tracing the evolution of our collective journey and the collaborative process that has shaped this network. This, in turn, will spotlight the driving forces and expectations that underpinned the birth of this international alliance tailored for aspiring mid-career women researchers. We also delve into the fundamental characteristics of the network and consider the benefits it offers to its members. Lastly, we will address the challenges the network faces, particularly regarding its sustainable development in the context of competitive, academic work environments.

Citation

Zheng, G., Kim, M.J., Qi, J., Aarnikoivu, M., Bekova, S., Meki-Kombe, C., Shabdan, B. and Tsephe, L. (2024), "Uncovering the Journey of Building a Community: A Story of a Global Network for Early- and Mid-Career Women Researchers", Aarnikoivu, M. and Le, A.T. (Ed.) Building Communities in Academia (Surviving and Thriving in Academia), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 59-72. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-83797-500-620241005