Do Aging Scientists Limit Job Opportunities For Young Researchers?
The work force is aging in the United States, and scientists are leading the way. From 1993 to 2008, the share of scientists aged 55 and older increased by nearly 90 percent, according to David Blau and Bruce Weinberg, economics professors at the Ohio State University.
By comparison, the share of all American workers aged 55 and older increased by little more than 50 percent during that period.
Dr. Blau and Dr. Weinberg attributed aging of the scientific work force to its large cohort of baby boomers and a decline in retirement rates, most likely triggered by the elimination of mandatory retirement in universities in 1994.
By comparison, the share of all American workers aged 55 and older increased by little more than 50 percent during that period.
Dr. Blau and Dr. Weinberg attributed aging of the scientific work force to its large cohort of baby boomers and a decline in retirement rates, most likely triggered by the elimination of mandatory retirement in universities in 1994.