Beth Duckles

Beth Duckles is a prominent figure in the academic community, known for her role as the Founder and Co-Director of Open Post Academics (OPA), which she established in early 2020. OPA serves as an online peer-support community aimed at individuals with PhDs who are transitioning out of traditional academic roles or exploring alternative career paths.14

Educational Background and Expertise

Duckles holds a Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Arizona. She is trained as a mixed-methods social scientist and has extensive experience in qualitative research, having taught various research skills across academic and industry settings. Her expertise encompasses designing and conducting mixed-methods research, facilitating workshops, and providing mentorship to research teams.126

Contributions and Roles

In addition to her work with OPA, Duckles has been involved in various initiatives that promote open science and community building within academia. She has served as a wrangler for the Mozilla Festival's Sustainability and Climate Change Space and is affiliated with Data & Society, where she contributes to discussions on technology and public interest.26 Her approach emphasizes collaboration, empathy, and inclusion, making her a respected facilitator among peers.13

Impact on Academia

Duckles is recognized for her ability to empower individuals transitioning from academia through practical workshops and supportive community engagement. Her work not only aids those navigating their career paths but also fosters a culture of sharing knowledge and skills beyond traditional academic boundaries.45