Research on researchers. Coping during COVID-19. Results on a nation-wide survey

Abstract

This paper presents findings of a nation-wide study examining the impact of COVID-19 on researchers. Findings indicate that more than half of researchers experienced personal or family mental strain due to COVID-19 pandemic effects. COVID-19 pandemic is being treated as an opportunity by six out of ten researchers in terms of more time for study and planning future research activities (78 per cent). The majority of researchers (73 per cent) believe that Science and Technology will emerge enhanced from the pandemic in the public sphere. Relating our findings with research outcomes of existed surveys, it appears that COVID-19 had a significant impact on researchers’ and workers’ psychosocial life. Researchers’ and scientists’ standpoint suggest that Science and Technology will be upgraded in the public dialogue. Finally, researchers viewed the pandemic as an opportunity for more time for study and planning of future research activities while working time, with respect to other countries, decreased the most.