The PIFER Lab (Professional & Institutional Contexts of Faculty Experiences & Careers Research Lab) advances knowledge about the professoriate, the contexts of academic work, and the preparation for and progression of academic careers across individual and institutional characteristics. We employ a variety of research methods, with a predominant focus on qualitative inquiry. We explore faculty identity, experiences, success, and satisfaction at the individual level. At the institutional and disciplinary level, we advance research about the characteristics, policies, cultures, leadership, and other factors that contribute to contexts of academic work and faculty careers.
The PIFER Lab
Who We Are
Advancing Kentucky
The PIFER Lab advances Kentucky through its research about the academic profession and postsecondary institutions, which allows for contributions toward ensuring that every Kentuckian has access to quality care, strong education, meaningful work, and a connected community. Its focus on the preparation and advancement of researchers and scholars, as well as the organization, administration, and advancement of the colleges and universities in which they work, generates knowledge that helps to ensure that Kentuckians are provided with the strongest possible relationship between higher education and the public good. In these ways, the PIFER Lab aims to contribute to well-being and opportunity within and beyond Kentucky.
Our Team
The PIFER Lab is a collaborative team of researchers dedicated to the study of postsecondary institutions and faculty careers in ways that advance knowledge and practice.
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Meghan Pifer Professor and Chair |
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Adam Elias PhD Candidate |
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Philip Meersman PhD Candidate |
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Charity Powell PhD Candidate |
Current Research
Midcareer Faculty Development within Institutional Contexts
This multi-year study explores the experiences of midcareer faculty within research universities and identifies opportunities for institutions to invest in sustained success, satisfaction, and retention among this vital component of the professoriate.
University Influences on Faculty Careers
This study, conducted with Dr. Karley Riffe (University of Cincinnati), explores faculty, staff, and administrative experiences, behaviors, and networks related to advancing faculty careers broadly and research, scholarship, and creative works more specifically. One aim of the study is to provide institutional stakeholders with evidence-based strategies for increasing institutional efficiency and effectiveness, while investing in employee experiences and development, to maximize the potential to fulfill missions and advance the public good.
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