One in four Australian scientists say the coronavirus pandemic has left them stressed out and anxious
- Almost one in four Australian scientists say coronavirus has left them stressed
- Lack of job security was a key source of stress and a drain on mental wellbeing
- More than five per cent took a pay cut, while hours were reduced for 10 per cent
Almost one in four Australian scientists believe pandemic-induced mental stress and anxiety is affecting their work.
A union-commissioned survey of 1,467 scientists found a lack of job security was a key source of stress and a drain on mental wellbeing.
Professional Scientists Australia chief executive Gordon Brock said coronavirus had intensified pressure on scientists.
Almost one in four Australian scientists believe pandemic-induced mental stress and anxiety is affecting their work (file picture)
‘As Australians look to their scientists to protect them in the battle against COVID-19, our scientists are struggling with challenges on multiple fronts,’ he said on Wednesday.
‘Not only were the nation’s scientists dealing with the stress and responsibility of confronting the COVID-19 pandemic, they were having to deal with multiple economic and personal issues as well.’
About one in five said caring for children or homeschooling had reduced their ability to work.
More than five per cent took a pay cut, with those working in metals the hardest hit, while hours were reduced for 10 per cent.
Casual workers and self-employed scientists dominated the reduction in hours.
Just over 15 per cent had their role and responsibilities changed.
Almost 30 per cent reported physical distancing limiting their work, while 27.7 per cent opted to work from home.
More than two thirds were directed to work from home, while others reported not being allowed to stay away from the workplace despite it being feasible.
Almost three in five respondents believed Australians placed a greater value on science because of the coronavirus pandemic.
CSIRO chief executive Larry Marshall will outline his perspective on the critical role of science and technology in driving Australia’s COVID-19 recovery efforts to the National Press Club on Wednesday.
The speech in Canberra will also emphasise the power of bold, visionary collaboration to build future resilience and solve major challenges.
Mr Brock said there was a strong case for major strategic investment in science and technology to drive economic reconstruction.
‘We call on the government, business and the education sector to take up this opportunity.’