Nature头条：世界需要多少博士？博士毕业生数量已远远供大于求

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant increase in the number of PhD graduates globally, particularly in populous countries like China and India, while highlighting the mismatch between the growing number of PhDs and the limited academic job opportunities available [3][7][12]. Group 1: Growth of PhD Graduates - The number of PhD graduates has been steadily increasing over the past few decades, with a near doubling of new PhD holders in OECD countries from 1998 to 2017 [6]. - In China, the number of students pursuing PhDs has surged from approximately 300,000 in 2013 to over 600,000 in 2023, driven by the increasing number of individuals holding bachelor's and master's degrees [7]. Group 2: Job Market Challenges - The academic job market has not kept pace with the rising number of PhD graduates, leading to intense competition for academic positions [8]. - A study in the UK found that over two-thirds of PhD graduates are employed outside academia, indicating a shift in employment patterns [10]. Group 3: Employment Satisfaction and Income Disparities - Despite the challenges, over 90% of PhD graduates report high job satisfaction, particularly in science and technology fields [13]. - Research indicates that PhD holders generally earn higher hourly wages than master's degree holders, although this is not consistent across all fields, with some areas like law and management showing lower earnings for PhD holders [13]. Group 4: Calls for Reform - Researchers advocate for a reevaluation of the PhD's role and reforms in higher education to better prepare graduates for non-academic careers [15]. - Some countries have begun implementing changes, such as providing training and paid internships during PhD studies, but many students feel insufficiently prepared for non-academic roles [15]. Group 5: Skills Demand - The oversupply of PhD graduates does not devalue the degree but highlights a disconnect between traditional educational models and labor market needs [16]. - Skills acquired through PhD programs, such as innovation and critical thinking, are in high demand in the job market, suggesting a need for improved PhD training that aligns with contemporary requirements [16].