Fighting the Elements: The Role of PhD Holders in Low-Tech Industrial Districts
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1229/tecempresarialjournal.v20i2.628Keywords:
PhD holders, low-tech industries, qualitative study, interpretive approach, industrial district, clusterAbstract
Not all PhD holders can pursue careers in academia, leading many to work in non-academic organizations or start their own businesses. Previous research has focused on high-tech regions, where PhD skills are more sought after; however, this study explores PhD roles in a Valencian industrial district primarily focused on low-tech textile industries. Using qualitative methods, we examine both PhD holders' and employers' perceptions of these roles. The findings encourage a nuanced view of PhD holders as change agents who contribute significantly to regional challenges, enriching the broader academic discourse on PhD employability outside academia. This research underlines the importance of recognizing diverse contributions made by PhD holders in low-tech contexts, which often go unacknowledged. Additionally, it points to a lack of trust between PhD holders and employers, which hampers collaborative efforts and understanding of their roles. By addressing these challenges, our findings offer insights for policies aimed at enhancing the social impact of research and encouraging stronger partnerships between PhD professionals and regional industries.
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