I came across this post written by a postdoc, as a response to an article in NATURE. If the future of postdocs is grim, why everyone still encourages to do science? Don't you think instead of screwy suggestions given in the NATURE article, it would be better if the industries are encouraged to absorb these postdocs?
I didn't read the NATURE article, but I read through the blog post. Is this in reference to post docs everywhere or is this specific to India? I don't have a Post, pre or current "doc" so I guess I'm not the target audience. But am I right in thinking that a post-doc is basically a way to get specialized training in an area, making you all the more appealing to a future employer? Or is it a road to teaching? Do most post-docs end up teaching, working in the public sector or in the private sector?
I would guess the situation applies to everywhere. However, I'm not sure how it is in India and China. I have known people doing their 2nd postdocs or more. Yes, you are right in that it is means to get specialized knowledge. However, while most of the bright students are encouraged to pursue a research career only a few are rewarded. Industries are not keen in hiring a postdoc and as the NATURE article says only 10% are hired for teaching. Govts.' redtape and cuts along with nepotism, corruption and protectionism mean that many postdocs are left out. Ex. India. So, I think, research career (PhD and Postdoc) may be a very bad idea from an employment perspective... It is a very grim picture