Research Administrators and Managers With Doctorates (DRMAs): An Emerging Profession for Advanced Degree Holders

• In Event: Leadership Development for the Professions

Abstract

Doctorate Research Managers and Administrators (DRMAs) is an emerging profession consisting of individuals who have attained the highest educational degrees, obtained research training, and have job titles as research managers and administrators (RMAs). While research administration has drawn attention among scholars, practitioners, and policymakers alike in recent years, only a handful of studies have investigated the professional identity of RMAs, especially those with advanced degrees. This paper reviews the current literature on RMAs, provides working hypotheses on the attributes and mindsets of DRMAs, and then tests them by combining insights drawn from a large-scale RAAAP survey and a qualitative case study. The research intends to shed a new light on DRMAs as a viable career option for advanced degree holders.

Authors

• Mariko Yang-Yoshihara, Stanford University

• Susi Poli, University of Bologna

• Simon Kerridge, University of Kent