Modern universities have been described as hybrids in that they incorporate different logics, practices and value systems at many levels in their operations. The concept of hybridism in this context implies the coexistence of these different logics. This suggests that the simultaneous presence of neoliberalism and professionalism in universities, and more concretely in academic work and careers, is a possibility. However, research has shown that these two realities often clash in higher education, leading to conflicts. The coexistence of neoliberalism and professionalism can be described as a paradox and offers insights into the unique dynamics of contemporary academia. In this project, art-based methods are used in workshops and interviews are being collected from academics working in Finnish, Portuguese and U.S universities to gather experiences and views from different disciplinary realities. This research project aims to identify, explore, and analyse paradoxes in academic work and career-building that arise from the tensions between conflicting logics, practices and values that exist in hybrid universities.

2025