Wellbeing in Science: Redefining Success Beyond the Lab

Throughout our education and well into postgraduate life, we're often taught to work hard, maintain professionalism and market ourselves to potential employers. However, what is often overlooked during these formative years is the critical importance of personal wellbeing. We're ushered through the education system with expectations of how we should behave, yet we’re rarely given the space or opportunity to explore who we truly are. This is a troubling oversight—how can we truly know ourselves or understand our unique needs and how we work best if we’re not encouraged to reflect on them? In fields like science, I find this disconnect especially pronounced.

A recent international study by Vaidyanathan (2021) on factors affecting the wellbeing of scientists revealed alarming trends, particularly in the UK. UK scientists reported the highest levels of burnout among all countries surveyed, with female scientists experiencing significantly more burnout than their male counterparts. When assessing psychological distress, 25% of postgraduate students met the threshold for serious mental illness, while less than 2% of professors did. Additionally, 17% of female scientists reported psychological distress compared to 11% of male scientists. The study further highlighted that women in science are far more likely than men to face harassment, public humiliation, bullying, discrimination and malicious gossip. These statistics are not only eye-opening but deeply concerning, highlighting systemic issues that urgently need to be addressed. They serve as a wake-up call to the pressures and unhealthy working conditions often present in the scientific field and emphasise the lack of focus on wellbeing—especially among women scientists, who as this study shows are disproportionately affected.

One of the key reasons I believe this issue deserves greater attention is the profound impact scientists have on society through their work. Imagine how much more they could achieve if wellbeing were prioritised within the scientific culture. In a quote from his book Entangled Life, I believe Merlin Sheldrake captures the essence of scientists beautifully: "Science isn’t an exercise in cold-blooded rationality. Scientists are—and have always been—emotional, creative, intuitive, whole human beings, asking questions about a world that was never made to be catalogued and systematized." Studies suggest that embracing the more holistic aspects of science—like awe, wonder, and beauty—not only motivates scientists but also enhances their productivity (Vaidyanathan., 2021; Upenieks & Vaidyanathan., 2024). Knowing this, I find it truly baffling that we don’t foster a work and learning environment that celebrates, encourages and prioritises these qualities. Imagine a world where scientists are supported in their creativity, enabling them to thrive both personally and professionally. That is a world I want to live in and one that I have every intention of working toward.

I feel personally driven to speak out on this issue because in my own experience as a student and marine biologist, I’ve noticed a troubling disconnect between working in science and maintaining a balanced, healthy life where wellbeing is valued. Despite holding two degrees and aspiring to pursue a PhD, I find myself hesitant. I worry that the intense demands will leave little room for time with friends and other activities that help me process and keep me grounded, such as spending time in nature and engaging in wellbeing practices like yoga. From what I’ve observed, academia and the scientific world often don't make space for this balance. I've seen friends, either during or while leaving their PhDs, suffer immensely from stress and pressure to the point where their health has been compromised, forcing some to abandon their studies. While I understand that a PhD is inherently challenging and comes with its share of stress, I believe it should never come at the expense of a student's health or personal wellbeing. There’s something deeply wrong with a system that allows this. I don’t want to be put in a position where I must choose between a fulfilling career in science and my own mental and physical health.

I don’t have a clear vision of what an ideal balance would look like, but I believe that placing a greater emphasis on wellbeing in science is a crucial first step. By nurturing an environment where mental and physical health are valued as much as productivity, I’m confident that scientific and academic success, along with personal happiness, could thrive together rather than being at odds.

In conclusion, the wellbeing of scientists is an issue that I believe can no longer be overlooked. If we want to foster innovation and produce meaningful contributions to society, we must create a culture in science that values the health and happiness of its people as much as their output. A system that pushes individuals to the brink of burnout and compromises their mental and physical wellbeing is unsustainable. I want to reimagine a scientific environment where creativity, curiosity, and collaboration thrive alongside personal balance and wellbeing. By prioritising the whole person—emotional, mental and physical—I believe we can cultivate a healthier, more productive community of scientists. Let’s break the cycle of stress and pressure and instead build a future where scientists don’t have to choose between their passion for discovery and their own wellbeing.

If you believe that wellbeing should be a priority in the scientific community, I’d love to hear your thoughts! How do you think we can better support scientists in balancing their work and mental health? Leave a comment below or please share your ideas—let’s start a conversation about creating a healthier, more sustainable culture in science.

Further reading and references:

Laura, U. and Brandon, V., 2024. Prone to wellness? Dispositional awe, religion/spirituality, and well-being among academic scientists. Social Science Research, 123, p.103063.

Vaidyanathan, B. (2021) ‘Work and Wellbeing in Science: Key Findings’. Available at: https://workandwellbeingstudy.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/vaid-well-being-fact-sheet.pdf