全球博士生过剩

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the increasing number of PhD graduates globally, particularly in China and India, and the mismatch between the number of graduates and available academic positions, leading to calls for alternative pathways such as "industry PhDs" to better align with market needs [1][2][3]. Group 1: Growth of PhD Graduates - The number of PhD graduates in China has doubled from approximately 300,000 in 2013 to over 600,000 in 2023 [1]. - Factors contributing to this growth include an increase in the number of individuals holding bachelor's and master's degrees, as well as the expectation that higher education will yield better economic returns [2]. Group 2: Employment Challenges - The growth in PhD graduates has not been matched by an increase in academic job opportunities, leading many to seek employment outside academia [3]. - In countries like the UK, over two-thirds of PhD graduates are employed in non-academic roles, often in positions that do not fully utilize their qualifications [3][4]. Group 3: Need for Educational Reform - There is a call for a reevaluation of PhD training programs to better prepare graduates for the rapidly changing job market [4]. - Suggestions include increasing collaboration between universities and industries to create "industry PhDs" that focus on practical, market-driven research [4][5]. - Countries like Japan, Germany, and the UK have begun reforms to integrate industry experience into PhD programs, such as paid internships and collaborative research projects [4][5]. Group 4: Industry Collaboration - Examples of successful industry-academia collaborations include Shanghai University of Technology's focus on innovative medical devices and partnerships between local software companies and universities for talent development [5]. - The emphasis is on cultivating skills that are valued in the job market, such as innovative thinking and analytical abilities, through collaborative educational models [5].