Choosing an International Academic Career: Possibilities and Realities

Key Points

• This paper explores the realities and significance of working as an academic at foreign universities, using experience from the National University of Singapore.
• Overview of career schemes and tenure track systems at NUS.
• Analysis of challenges faced under a competitive evaluation structure and the associated institutional support.
• Discussion of communication redesign in a non-native language environment and experiences gained in an international evaluation setting.
• Academic careers abroad present challenges but offer opportunities for reframing expertise and career development.
• Institutional support plays a critical role in navigating competitive academic environments.
• Experiences in international settings contribute to personal and professional growth.