From Flexicurity to Flexsecquality?: The Impact of the Fixed-Term Contract Provisions on Employment in Science Research

Recruitment and retention problems in academic science careers-have led to a focus on career decision making. One key factor is contractual insecurity. In practice, the quality of positions and their place in the career shape their impact. Implementing the European Directive on Fixed-Term Work has important implications for both the quality and longevity of positions. This directive seeks to reconcile the objectives of promoting security and flexibility or "flexicurity." Considered in this paper is the use of fixed-term contracts and the potential impact of the new legislation on the ability to attract and retain high-quality researchers and sustain a vibrant, competitive research system.