The Return of the "Brains"
The Comeback and Reintegration of Portuguese Researchers in Mobility
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52712/issn.1850-0013-830Keywords:
mobility, researchers, Portugal, scienceAbstract
This article aims to analyse why researchers trained abroad return to and how they reintegrate in semi-peripheral countries, based on research carried out in Portugal. Quantitative data on return flows and reintegration modalities is presented alongside qualitative information, based on interviews, addressing motivations, career trajectories and the impact of mobility in scientific work. It has been ascertained that, though the amount of returns is significant and the ability to reintegrate in the scientific system is fairly common, difficulties do exist. Two types of returnee researchers are identified, corresponding to different career situations and different hurdles in pursuing scientific activities. Finally, the positive effects of mobility in scientific practice and in the development of the R&D system are discussed, together with the barriers to its comprehensive fulfilment.
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