Happenstance-Karriereplanung junger Forscher:innen nach der §109 UG (2021) Novelle in Österreich

Abstract

In an academic career in particular, unplanned events, so-called happenstances, can have a significant impact on the career path (Krumboltz, et al, 2013, p15-26) and thus open up new opportunities or change existing plans. This paper uses the Happenstance approach to shed light on the career planning of young academics in the context of the §109 UG (2021) amendment in Austria, which provides for a new fixed-term period of eight years for fixed-term employment contracts at an institute. This new labor law regulation adds another uncertain component to an already very complex and uncertain topic.The experiences and perspectives of researchers are gathered through qualitative interviews with experts. The focus of the analysis is on the changes in career goals,plans and strategies as a result of the amendment to §109 UG. Furthermore, it is examined how researchers can use the approach of the Happenstance Theory for the planning of their own career in order to deal with such unplanned events as the amendment. The results show that unforeseen events often act as a catalyst for career change.They lead to a re-evaluation of one's own biography, the career path so far and the existing framework conditions. They illustrate the complex interplay of personal agency and external factors in shaping the careers of early career researchers (Pryor, et al,2011, p232-243). Particular attention is paid to unofficial career paths, which means that the personal network is of special importance. At the same time, it is evident that the culture of fixed-term contracts at universities strongly influences long-term career planning in particular researchers adapt to uncertainty by developing more flexible approaches to achieving goals. Integrating Happenstance Theory into the analysis provides a deeper insight into the non-linear nature of researchers' career development. The results provide implications for universities and research institutions to offer targeted support to researchers in a volatile career landscape. Furthermore, this study contributes to the broader literature on career development by expanding our understanding of career decision-making processes and the influence of external factors on career trajectories.