Navigating the Post-Pandemic Normal: Learning from the Experiences of Cyprus-Based Female Researchers during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The article addresses the new normal for female researchers in the post-pandemic era by utilising information collected from the pandemic period, when disruption to ‘business as usual’ occurred. This information can inform a new normal that is as efficient, resilient, and ethical as possible. The research employs a case study methodology, with qualitative data collection and analysis approaches. To understand the circumstances faced by researchers in Cyprus during the pandemic, it was necessary to approach several scientists from different research areas and try to understand their experiences through conversations. The set of notes compiled from the completion of the informal conversations were analysed using thematic analysis. Three themes were identified: (a) misperceptions of flexibility in researchers’ schedules and workload, (b) lack of flexibility in adjusting expected outcomes or timelines, and (c) inability to compartmentalise personal and professional life. To better contextualise these findings, the study additionally explored survey results published by the European Commission on relevant topics, enabling a critical juxtaposition of the European perspective to the Cyprus-based findings of these pandemic-induced challenges. The study highlights significant misconceptions and overlooked dynamics regarding research conducted in times of crisis and offers avenues for ensuring research quality in analogous future scenarios.