Credit: Getty
Some time ago, I was having coffee with a colleague and close friend. She mentioned that she was being considered for a full professor position. Naturally, the conversation turned to salary.
“They’re offering around €85,000 [around US$99,000],” she said. “Seems reasonable.”
I was curious. “What’s that after tax?”
She paused, stirring her coffee. “I’m not sure exactly. I’d need to look it up.”
“All right, but more or less, what percentage of your salary is left after tax and social security?”
Another pause, longer this time. “I honestly have no idea. I’ve never really thought about it.”
Here’s the thing: this is someone who can design multi-year research projects, manage large research budgets and navigate complex grant applications. But her own future take-home pay? A mystery.
I’ve had many conversations just like this one over the years. This is much more common in academia than any of us wants to admit.
The vocation trap
... continue reading