Author Sonali Majumdar is highlighting the "hidden curriculum" that researchers encounter when they move to foreign countries to develop their careers [1].
These unwritten rules often act as invisible barriers to professional success. For international scientists, failing to decode these social and cultural norms can hinder their ability to integrate into new research environments and advance in their fields.
Majumdar addresses these challenges in her book, *Thriving as an International Scientist*, which was published in 2023 [1]. The work serves as a guide for those navigating the complexities of scientific research in a global context.
"Among the barriers faced by researchers who move abroad to develop their careers is a so‑called ‘hidden curriculum,'" Majumdar said [1]. She said that these hurdles are not always academic or technical in nature, but are often rooted in the social fabric of the workplace.
According to Majumdar, the difficulty lies in the ambiguity of these expectations. "Navigating these unwritten rules that cover social norms and cultural expectations, both in the lab and outside work, can feel particularly daunting," Majumdar said [1].
The guidance provided by Majumdar focuses on how to identify these norms and adapt to them without losing one's professional identity. By making the hidden curriculum explicit, the author aims to improve the career development trajectories of scientists who operate across borders.
The discussion emphasizes that thriving in science overseas requires more than technical expertise. It requires a strategic approach to the cultural environment of the laboratory, a space where social dynamics can influence funding, collaboration, and promotion.
“"Among the barriers faced by researchers who move abroad to develop their careers is a so‑called ‘hidden curriculum.'"”
The concept of a 'hidden curriculum' suggests that academic success is not solely meritocratic but is heavily influenced by cultural capital. By identifying these unwritten rules, the scientific community can move toward a more inclusive environment that supports global talent regardless of their country of origin.
