Postdoctoral of Color Racialized Agency toward Tenure-Track Careers

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Postdoctoral of Color Racialized Agency toward Tenure-Track Careers
Language: English
Authors: Guillermo Ortega (ORCID 0000-0003-4335-360X), Román Liera (ORCID 0000-0003-3080-2891)
Source: AERA Open. 2025 11(1).
Availability: SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: http://sagepub.com
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 14
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: College Faculty, Minority Group Teachers, Racism, Postdoctoral Education, Beginning Teachers, Whites, Humanization, Career Readiness, Personal Autonomy, Supervisors
ISSN: 2332-8584
Abstract: This study explores how faculty of color describe their postdoc experiences, using the theory of racialized organizations as a framework. We interviewed fifteen faculty of color who previously held postdoc positions to examine their perceptions of racism in preparing for tenure-track careers. The findings reveal that whiteness operated through two main mechanisms: likability and ideal worker norms. Organizational practices either (re)produced or disrupted racial hierarchies that dehumanized Postdocs of Color. Postdoc supervisors emerged as key agents in fostering supportive environments that honor the racial identities and cultural values of Postdocs of Color. We conclude with recommendations for research and practice aimed at reversing racial barriers for postdocs of color on their path to tenure-track roles.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1494885
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:This study explores how faculty of color describe their postdoc experiences, using the theory of racialized organizations as a framework. We interviewed fifteen faculty of color who previously held postdoc positions to examine their perceptions of racism in preparing for tenure-track careers. The findings reveal that whiteness operated through two main mechanisms: likability and ideal worker norms. Organizational practices either (re)produced or disrupted racial hierarchies that dehumanized Postdocs of Color. Postdoc supervisors emerged as key agents in fostering supportive environments that honor the racial identities and cultural values of Postdocs of Color. We conclude with recommendations for research and practice aimed at reversing racial barriers for postdocs of color on their path to tenure-track roles.
ISSN:2332-8584