| By: |
Nieddu, Marco (University of Cagliari);
Nistico, Roberto (University of Naples Federico II);
Pandolfi, Lorenzo (University of Naples II) |
| Abstract: |
This paper examines how publication-based tenure-track systems affect the
careers of Ph.D. graduates in Economics. We leverage a 2010 reform in Italy
that replaced open-ended assistant professor (AP) positions with fixed-term
contracts and introduced publication minimum requirements for career
advancement. Using survey and administrative data, along with a
Difference-in-Differences Event-Study approach comparing Economics to less
academicallyoriented fields, we find that the reform significantly reduced the
likelihood of Economics Ph.D. graduates entering academia in Italy, while
increasing transitions to academic careers abroad or to public and private
sector jobs. Talented graduates were disproportionately affected, revealing
negative selection into Italian academia following the removal of permanent AP
positions. Despite these trends, tenure-track hires tend to publish more in
high-ranking journals, suggesting that the reform’s incentive effects may
partly mitigate its negative selection effects. |
| Keywords: |
publications, fertility, academic careers, tenure |
| JEL: |
I23 J13 J24 J71 |
| Date: |
2025–08 |
| URL: |
https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:iza:izadps:dp18083 |