COVID-19 and the academy: opinions and experiences of university-based scientists in the U.S.

This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on university-based scientists in the U.S., focusing on biologists, biochemists, and civil and environmental engineers. A probability-based survey revealed that university closures were the most common negative impact, affecting 93% of scientists. Significant differences emerged among subgroups, with women, assistant professors, and scientists in COVID-19 hotspots reporting greater difficulties concentrating on research. Assistant professors also faced increased childcare responsibilities. However, approximately half the sample reported positive impacts, highlighting the need for a comprehensive understanding of the pandemic's effects on science. Opinions on COVID-19 research policies, particularly concerning surveillance technologies and expedited approval processes, were found to be diverse.

Timothy P. Johnson, Mary K. Feeney, Heyjie Jung, Ashlee Frandell, Mattia Caldarulo, Lesley Michalegko, Shaika Islam, Eric W. Welch